An Abergavenny nurse tutor who discovered she had breast cancer just a year ago is to set up a support group for sufferers in north Gwent.

Lesley Radley, who is originally from Newport, celebrates her 60th birthday on Thursday, and it is set to be a happy occasion as she has just had a clear mammogram.

But it was only 12 months ago that she was shaken by the sudden discovery of a cancerous lump in her right breast.

"I nursed people with breast cancer years ago," she said, "but it's different when you are the patient. I needed to talk to someone who had been through it. There was no support group in this half of the county, and the seed was planted for the formation of one."

With one in nine women in Britain getting breast cancer at some stage in their lives, Lesley thinks that between 30 and 40 patients will turn up at the first meeting at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny, at 7pm on March 14.

"There is a very successful support group running in the south of the county. I have attended several of their monthly meetings and been inspired.

"When I was diagnosed I contacted a friend who had been through it, and she gave me practical advice on what bra and nightie to wear, what to expect from the treatment etc. She even showed me her scar!"

It is this sort of down-to- earth support from women in similar circumstances that the group will offer, as well as social gatherings and listening to relevant speakers.

"The clinics are full at Nevill Hall and Velindre hospitals," said Lesley, "I'm sure there is a great need for such a group.

"However, some women will just want to forget about it."

Lesley had had three clear mammograms under the post-50 screening service before she discovered the lump herself in January last year.

Lesley can be contacted on 01873 858973 for further information.