A FORMER lecturer who has given help and support to sufferers of a progressive disease is due to be honoured by the distinguished actor Richard Briers.

Arthur Burgess, of Lower Wick, Worcester, will be given an Honorary Life Membership of the Parkinson's Disease Society during a ceremony at Malvern Theatre tomorrow.

Mr Burgess, aged 72, has dedicated his retirement years to the Worcester and District Group after his wife, Joan, was diagnosed with the condition in 1990.

For the past 12 years, Mr Burgess, who had been a lecturer in engineering at the former Bromsgrove College, has helped build up the success of the group - which now has 150 members.

As secretary he was the driving force behind the 16-page quarterly newsletter which offers help and advice for carers and sufferers.

"After Joan, who is a former nurse, was diagnosed we went to the library to try and find out more about Parkinson's Disease," said Mr Burgess.

"I picked up a leaflet about the local association and we attended the next meeting which we found to be very useful.

"As I had just retired I offered to help out and at the next annual meeting I was appointed secretary.

"Parkinson's is the sort of condition that strikes you down and many people come to us at their wits end.

"As a group we can offer people advice on medical advances or simple tips to make life easier at home, for both the person with Parkinson's, or the carer."

Mr Burgess will be presented with his certificate from the society's patron, Richard Briers, who has tirelessly worked for the charity following the death of his cousin, the actor Terry Thomas, who died of the disease.

"Mr Burgess has given the Parkinson's Disease Society and member of the branch invaluable help," said Linda Kelly, chief executive of Parkinson's Disease Society.

"We are delighted to recognise his generous contribution by awarding him Honorary Life Membership of the Society and are enormously grateful for everything he has done."

To call the free Parkinson's Disease helpline ring 0808 800 0303 or to find out more about the Worcester and District group ring Mr Burgess on 01905 424977.