A new specialist service for epilepsy sufferers in Keighley is being used as a national blueprint for the future treatment of the condition.

The service -- run by Bradford District Care Trust -- is the first in the country to use GP specialists to deal with the condition.

The trust, which provides health care for people in Keighley with mental health and learning disabilities, set up the new team after a two-year audit revealed flaws in the treatment of patients.

The review into regional epilepsy services found long waits for people with the condition, a misdiagnosis rate of 15 to 20 per cent and incorrect medication being administered.

Health bosses claim that using specialists dedicated to treating epilepsy has reduced waiting lists and misdiagnosis, with some patients experiencing a 50 per cent reduction in seizures.

Epilepsy nurse specialist Jon Sutcliffe said: "Not only do we have health professionals who have in-depth knowledge and experience of epilepsy but we are also unique in offering a community-based service.

"We visit people in a location and time convenient for them, which makes a huge difference. A quarter of the 668 who use our service have learning disabilities, resulting in complex health needs and, in some cases, mobility problems.

"The fact that we can visit people in nursing homes, day centres or their own homes really helps.

"We are very proud of the service we offer and are pleased to act as a blueprint for epilepsy services around the country."

The pioneering service, staffed by three GP epilepsy specialists, two specialist nurses and a neurologist, has attracted national attention due to its results, claims the trust.

Neurologist Dr Nigel Hakin said: "Epilepsy is one of the most difficult subjects in medicine as it is very difficult to diagnose and treat.

"There is no simple test that will prove or disprove a diagnosis of epilepsy."

Epilepsy is the second most common neurological condition after migraine and is characterised by recurrent seizures.

Around eight people in every 1,000 suffer from it. This rises to one in two for people with learning disabilities.

Andrea Walker, chairman of Epilepsy Action Airedale branch, said: "We try to get the message across that it is nothing to be ashamed about, and we give out information and encourage people to come to meetings."

The group meets next on September 16, at 7pm, in Keighley Disabled People's Centre.

Anyone who would like more information can contact Andrea on 01535 600307 and 07747685424, or Epilepsy Action's free helpline on 0808 8005050.