Manx lung disease charity Breathe Easy Isle of Man has held an awareness day at Tesco.

The charity is a support group for the British Lung Foundation (BLF) and had a stand set up in the Douglas store where supporters offered to show how they can support people who are affected by lung disease and the effect clean air can have.

The event was part of the charity’s Breathe Easy Week, which ran from June 12 to 17.

Viv Osland from the Manx charity said: ’Many people consider breathlessness as a sign of getting old or being unfit yet it is one of the most common symptoms of lung disease. Early diagnosis of a lung condition can improve quality of life and care for patients, which is why people are encouraged to visit their GP if they are feeling breathless in situations where they would not expect to be, such as during non-strenuous exercise.

’We really hope that this will show people that we are here for them. We were pleased that people took the opportunity to come to our awareness stand and find out more about breathlessness and early diagnosis, what the group does, and how we can help them. And it was an opportunity to find out about the fantastic work that the British Lung Foundation does across the country.’

Breathe Easy Isle of Man provides free support and advice for anybody affected by any lung condition.

The group meet at St John Ambulance Headquarters on the third Thursday of each month at 2pm and also organise fundraising and social events featuring guest speakers.

Viv added: ’Our Breathe Easy group is here for anyone on the island living with a lung disease, their friends, family members or carers. Everyone is welcome to come and share advice, support, friendship and experiences with other people who are in a similar position.’

Viv thanked all those who assisted with and attended the event and also gave special thanks to MHK Ann Corlett who spent time at the charity stand.

Read more on the Breathe Easy Isle of Man Facebook page.