OTLEY’S MP is to champion the cause of arthritis sufferers.

Greg Mulholland agreed this week to back Arthritis Research UK’s efforts to find a cure for the condition and to push for policy change to help with its prevention and treatment.

He will also be campaigning to improve the lot of people with any musculoskeletal conditions, which include back pain and osteoporosis.

He said: “I am delighted to become an Arthritis Champion. Musculoskeletal conditions are a significant cause of disability in the UK.

“We need to see change that creates the best possible policy environment in which to prevent and cure these conditions.

“We also need an urgent transformation of the services available to those living with these conditions.”

Chief executive officer of Arthritis Research UK, Dr Liam O’Toole, added: “We need the help of arthritis champions to advocate the needs of people with arthritis nationally and locally.”