THE FOUNDER of Sidmouth Stroke Survivors has spoken out after national newspapers this weekend highlighted how poor rehabilitation is for stroke patients across the UK. Terry Hounsom, himself a stroke survivor, founded his group last September after movin

THE FOUNDER of Sidmouth Stroke Survivors has spoken out after national newspapers this weekend highlighted how poor rehabilitation is for stroke patients across the UK.Terry Hounsom, himself a stroke survivor, founded his group last September after moving to the town and realising there was no group for stroke patients.Reading an article under the headline 'Britain's Stroke Shame', describing strokes as Britain's third biggest killer disease and biggest cause of disability in adults, Mr Hounsom, 61, of Water Lane, said in reality, except where voluntary self-help groups had taken control of the situation, rehabilitation was "virtually non-existent across the country."His self-help group focuses on exercise as a means of rehabilitation and ongoing fitness for all ages and levels of infirmity. Mr Hounsom said: "The group is primarily an exercise group, although the camaraderie generated, makes it much more than this." It meets for about an hour each Monday at 2pm at Sidmouth College sports centre, and is professionally supervised by a qualified fitness instructor. Each session costs £2.50 and there is no membership fee.Stroke survivors and health professionals, including doctors and physios, can attend, to participate or watch a class in action.Each participant needs approval from their doctor to take part.More information is available from Mr Hounsom on (01395) 576736.