A WEYMOUTH councillor who battled cancer last year is looking to set up a support group.

Deputy mayor Lynne Herbert, who had to have part of her bowel removed in an operation to treat the cancer, wants to hear from people in a similar situation.

Lynne, 50, who has a permanent colostomy, said she was surprised when she came out of hospital earlier this year that there was no support group available for people with a stoma.

She said: "I don't think we like to talk about bowels that much and as a result we have become very ignorant on the subject.

"I hope to raise awareness and offer support to men and women who may have had surgery or who are waiting for an operation."

She added: "I feel people with stomas could benefit by talking to others in a similar position and draw on each others' experiences.

"Having a stoma does alter your life but it doesn't have to stop you enjoying the rest of your life."

Mum-of-two Lynne, who is married to Brian, has represented the Melcombe Regis ward for the Liberal Democrats on Weymouth and Portland Borough Council since 2000.

She is an experienced hotelier but has had to take things a lot easier since coming out of hospital and now leaves the running of the Freshford Hotel in Grange Road to her husband.

Lynne said: "I was very surprised to be offered the position of deputy mayor of the borough. I had to think long and hard whether I was able to make that commitment.

"My fellow councillors and my family were very supportive and gave me the confidence I needed."

Lynne has organised an event at the Hotel Rembrandt in Dorchester Road, Weymouth, next Wednesday from 11am-3pm. Anyone who is interested in joining a support group is welcome to attend.

A company called Hollister which produces pouches for colostomy and ileostomy patients will be displaying products at the event.

A Dorchester-based firm called White Rose which specialises in underwear and swimwear for pouch users will also be in attendance.

For more information call Lynne on 01305 775862.