A WELL-KNOWN farmer and councillor from Great Urswick has praised medical staff, his family and his political rivals who urged him to seek help for what turned out to be a tumour that nearly crippled him.

James Airey had been experiencing problems with his balance for a number of weeks - a problem which had been spotted by those close to him.

However, reluctant to trouble anyone or to make a sinister discovery, he put off the inevitable and necessary step of seeking medical help - a decision that almost cost him his ability to walk.

"These things can happen to anybody," the 47-year-old said.

"You might think you're being a bit daft or difficult but if you think there's something not right you absolutely have to get yourself checked out.

"I delayed seeking treatment, and the doctors said if I'd left it any longer I would have been in a wheelchair within three years.

"It's pretty scary stuff but that's the message I want to get out - if you're worried about something don't hesitate - get yourself to the doctor."

After repeated calls from his family and political rivals, who had spotted Cllr Airey was experiencing problems walking, he finally sought medical help.

The Conservative politician, who is leader of his party on Cumbria County Council as well as acting as a district and town councillor, underwent a scan at Furness General Hospital in Barrow where a tumour was discovered in his spine.

After three operations at the Royal Preston Hospital, one of which lasted eight hours, neurosurgeons removed the tumour, which is believed to be benign.

Cllr Airey is grateful to all the medical professionals who treated him, and he says his prognosis is now very positive.

"I can't thank them enough," he said.

"These professionals are absolutely outstanding and without them, my future would have been much different."

Cllr Airey was also keen to praise his devoted wife Caroline, a postwoman who works in Ulverston, for holding the fort at their farm in Great Urswick.

"I don't know how she has coped, to be frank," he said.

"She works full-time, she's been looking after the farm and our 12-year-old son, Owen. She's been fantastic."