THE long wait for multiple sclerosis sufferers in Swindon is almost at end – with the unveiling of the new MS therapy centre in sight.

The opening of the new £850,000 centre, based at the old Farepak offices in Westmead Drive, comes after four years of fund raising.

Bradbury House will open its doors to the public on Saturday, January 23, from 10am. David Wray, chairman of the centre, said: “This really is a dream come true and the culmination of four years of hard work.

“It’s a huge step in the development of Swindon Therapy Centre and incredibly exciting. “With the extra space and facilities we look forward to expanding our range of therapies to even more people of all ages, including children. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the people and businesses of Swindon and the surrounding areas for their fantastic support with our project and hope they will continue to support us going forward.  “It is a wonderful facility to have – Bradbury House will be there for generations to come.”

The centrepiece of the £850,000 project is the new Oxygen Chamber, seating 12 people in two compartments, which will be delivered on Thursday.

The new chamber, costing £100,000, is 2.5 metres in diameter, 6.6 metres long and weighs 8.4 tonnes and will replace the existing six-place chamber, which has been used for over 23 years helping people with MS and other conditions. Swindon Therapy Centre is a totally self-funded group and has been treating people with MS since August 1983.

Many people who have had the treatment with oxygen therapy and other therapies have gained considerable benefit from them, according to organisers.

More recently the group has been able to help people with other neurological conditions such as ME, strokes and Parkinson’s disease. Other therapies also available include physiotherapy, pilates and other holistic therapies, as well as general advice and support.

During the last year there has also been treatment for children with a variety of conditions, including two with brain tumours, who are both reportedly showing encouraging signs of improvement.

One boy currently travels to Swindon from Wales because the centre is the closest one to him which treats children.

The opening will take place from 10am to 1pm, with entertainment being provided by magician Kieron the Mighty.

For further information email david.a.hughes@talktalk.net or call 01793 772382 or 07811 818208. Information is also available at www.msswindon.org.uk.