OFFICIALS have been appointed to the Breast Cancer Action Group.

The group recently had its first meeting and agreed a constitution to officially form the group into a charity and apply for registration.

The honorary president is Brenda Cannell, the chair is Julie Stokes, deputy chair is Anne Dowds, treasurer is Jane Rose and Karen Wagstaffe is the secretary.

Cherie Collier, Liz Gubby, Margaret Clark, Julie Wild and James Corrin are also on the committee.

Mr Corrin, on behalf of the group, said: "As a group we are resolute in our aims to improve breast cancer care treatment on the Isle of Man which we feel is diminished with the health service advertising for a general surgeon with an interest in breast care rather than a dedicated breast care surgeon which we had, who has now departed.

"Our aims are to monitor breast cancer care on the Isle of Man and to provide a voice for women and men who suffer from this disease and who feel that the Manx health service is letting them down.

"We are not prepared to stand by and see this vital service further diluted by the health minister or any future health minister following the general election, whether for cost reasons or otherwise.

"Our inaugural meeting has authorised our newly elected committee to continue to campaign with a strong voice for improvements in breast cancer care and give patients a voice."

The group has set up an email address for patients to write to in confidence about their complaints - BCAG@manx.net