READING'S mayor is hosting an evening reception this week in support of National Fibromyalgia Awareness Week.

The awareness week began yesterday and runs until Saturday September 12.

Mayor of Reading Councillor Sarah Hacker chose Fibromyalgia Action UK as one of her chosen charities this year, after visiting the Reading group and listening to residents who have this condition.

Cllr Hacker said she is keen to raise awareness of the condition, adding: "Fibromyalgia Action UK is a charity close to my heart and I am keen to help raise awareness of this debilitating condition, which affects up to 1 in 25 people, but often goes undiagnosed."

"Fibromyalgia is a long term condition causing fatigue and pain all over the body. Unfortunately, many people are still not aware of the condition or the difficult effects it has on both sufferers and their families. Although there is currently no cure there are many treatments available to help relieve the symptoms."

The reception, which will host representatives from The Reading Fibromyalgia Support Group, will run from 6 - 7.30pm in the Mayor's Parlour, Civic Offices, Reading.