A LOCAL support group for parents who have children with Down's Syndrome has been active for one year. It is called 21 Plus as children with Down's Syndrome have one extra chromosome 21.

It was started by Victoria Hughes from Raglan and Katharina Barker from Monmouth who both have a child with Down's Syndrome as a coffee morning with just a few parents meeting up in December last year. Since then the group has been getting together every other month to share experiences, give advice and support as well as allowing the children to get to know each other. The children's ages span from babies to teenagers.

Katharina said: "We are really pleased that we have been able to create a group which covers a wide area including the Forest of Dean, Monmouthshire and Newport as well as surrounding areas. We are always keen to hear from new families who are interested in joining us."

This December, to mark its first anniversary, 21 Plus will hold a special Christmas party for the whole family including older and younger siblings with a visit from Father Christmas and a gift for each of the children. It will take place on 14 December 2008. There will be mince pies and mulled drinks for the parents.

For more information about 21 Plus please contact either Victoria or Katharina on 07910 012 579.