Sufferers of hearing condition tinnitus are being encouraged to set up support groups in Bradford.

The British Tinnitus Association (BTA) has revealed there are only 32 tinnitus support groups in the country – where there used to be more than 120 – and there are none in Bradford.

The charity’s Talking Tinnitus campaign aims to get people talking about their experiences of the condition, which affects ten per cent of people in the UK.

David Stockdale, chief executive officer of the BTA, said: “People who experience tinnitus can often feel confused about the symptoms and causes, as well as isolated, which is why our Talking Tinnitus campaign is looking to address this problem by encouraging people in Bradford to talk about their tinnitus experience and to seek help from others who are also affected.

“We would like to see more groups established in the area so that many more of the thousands of people who experience tinnitus can gain benefit from others in a friendly and supportive environment.

“Many find that attending a tinnitus group can be an invaluable source of help and support. They can often be a lifeline to some, especially when members of their family or friends are unable to relate to their experience of tinnitus.”

Bradford had a tinnitus support group until 2006 when its chairman Geoff Standley, a member of the BTA, stood down after 25 years.

He helped sufferers over the phone and in some cases offered one-to-one counselling.

The group met once a month at Bradford Royal Infirmary and Mr Standley produced a three-monthly newsletter for members.

When he stood down and the group was hunting for a new chairman he said: “The role isn’t set in stone and people can decide how they want to develop it.

“It would be beneficial if they had some knowledge of the condition and the impact it has on people's lives.”

Anyone interested in setting up a group can phone (0800) 0180527.