ANYONE affected by Parkinson's Disease will know the sense of frustration and isolation it can cause for sufferers - simple tasks like writing or making a cup of tea become insurmountable.

The disease occurs when cells in the part of the brain that control movement are lost, causing shaking, muscle stiffness and slowness of movement. Every person with the disease is affected differently, and as yet there is no known cure, but drugs and physiotherapy are very effective at controlling the symptoms.

The Parkinson's Disease Society's branch in St Helens aims to improve the quality of life for people affected by the illness. There is entertainment, often a singer or a choir, bingo, prizes and a chance to get help and advice relating to the disease.

Peggy Rance Parkinson's sufferer and committee member, said: "We don't just talk about Parkinson's all the time but it is an opportunity for sufferers to take advice, or get things off their chest".

The group meet every fourth Thursday in the month, from 7.30pm at Windle Pilkington House in King Street for a social and buffet.

Muhammed Ali is one of the most famous sufferers of Parkinson's Disease and after seeing him on a BBC programme about sports people of the Millennium, Peggy was inspired to write a poem about his fighting spirit. Here's how it goes:

Muhammad Ali

The year 2000 is here Parkinsonians look to the future without fear And copy one of our fellow men, Muhammed Ali Who is not only Sportsman of the Year But Sportsman of the 20th Century. He was on TV for all to see And though a shadow of his former self Trembling, slow, quiet of speech He thanked the British people He received his trophy with dignity and grace And joked, "I will be here again" with a wry smile.

Ali rises at 6am every day For his religious prayers And helps deprived children in every way He is a living lesson for us to learn Let us take a leaf from his book Whatever our ills just take a look at ourselves Be determined, positive, forget any pain Show compassion to others It will be our gain.