WITH regard to a recent article about people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I have this debilitating disease, but the practice nurse at my GP's arranged for a 16-week course.

This was about 12 months ago and now I attend a once a fortnight class at the Yarn Spinners medical centre, Nelson. This has improved my outlook on life as regards my complaint.

I have learnt how to control my breathing when I have a panic attack and also to do exercises to help me be more mobile.

The manager of the COPD unit Judith McElroy and her team of highly skilled, dedicated, caring and first class instructors have given me something to hold on to, whereas before I did not know how each day would be.

I would recommend to anyone who is suffering from COPD to ask their GP to put their name forward for these classes.

MR B WHITTAKER, Manchester Road, Burnley.