I WRITE in response to Pauline Ovenden's criticism of GPs for their non-attendance at a conference on ME in London.

My illness has been thoroughly assessed and I receive ongoing support from knowledgeable GPs who listen and offer what help they can.

Fibromyalgia and ME are complex, debilitating and painful conditions and, in caring as they do, my GPs are upset and frustrated that they cannot do more to help.

Should their research discover further help to alleviate the illness I know they would contact me immediately.

Until then, their support enables me to understand and better manage this complicated chronic illness.

MRS JOY GALE, Ferrers Street,Hereford.