Bradford parents have united to stamp out the stigma surrounding epilepsy.

About 20 families have teamed up to provide mutual support and raise awareness in memory of four-year-old Liam Wilson, who died from the neurological condition last year.

And they are appealing for help to allow their sons and daughters to enjoy the normal activities other children do.

The Bradford Parents of Children with Epilepsy was formed to plug a gap in support for young sufferers.

Mum Julie Coverdale, of Wibsey, whose ten-year-old daughter Sarah was diagnosed with epilepsy, said there was nothing in Bradford for child sufferers. She said: "Epilepsy is a general word which covers a variety of different types, from full seizures to just clicking off for a few seconds.

"But people are frightened of it because they don't understand. We want people to realise our children are just the same as everyone else and just as capable."

The group plans to meet every six weeks and is trying to raise cash for a trip to a theme park this summer.

Members are also offering to visit schools and organisations to explain their needs.

The new group is fully supported by staff at St Luke's Hospital, including consultant paediatrician Dr Des Ginbey and outreach sister Janice High.

Janice said: "The parents work so hard trying to get support for everything from education to health. They have to fight for everything they want.

"The children are also isolated and a lot of them are bullied through ignorance. This group is about getting together in an informal way to make sure they are not on their own."

Activities will be funded through the Liam Wilson Epilepsy Fund, set up after he died in his sleep last May. Parents and children have already completed a sponsored walk raising more than £400 for the charity.

Anyone who wishes to join the group, or help raise funds, can call Janice High on (01274) 365562.