MEMBERS of a lung disease support group raised more than £140 for Harefield Hospital by using NASA research and the humble house plant.

Harefield Breathing Support Group nurtured dozens of baby house plants and braved the wind and rain to sell them during the 36th annual Harefield Charity Fun Run and Family Day.

The group encourages its members to grow plants in their homes as part of their therapy for various lung conditions. They used that expertise for its Breathing Plant campaign and to support Harefield Hospital.

Carole Castle, co-founder and secretary, said: “Every penny we raised goes to help Harfield Hospital treat and beat heart and lung disease. I’ve no doubt that most of our group would not be alive if it wasn’t for the hospital and the amazing people who work there.

“We also want to educate people that simple plants, like the Spider Plant or English Ivy, can rid our homes of the many airborne toxins.

“A little care and the plant on your window sill can clear those chemicals. I feel very passionate about this and I’ve plants in my bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and sitting room.”

Common indoor plants absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen and purify your home by removing toxins from the air.

Harefield Breathing Support Group meets on the third Thursday of every month at Harefield Library in Park Lane from 2pm. For more information, e-mail harefieldbreathinggroup@gmail.com or call 01895 828 851.