History

Representatives from the neuroscience centres in Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Hull, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Preston and Liverpool joined together in 1962 to form the North of England Neurological Association. 'Neuroscientists' and their trainees from these centres and the associated District General Hospitals are all NENA members.

NENA meetings were initially held on Saturdays, at the seven NENA centres in rotation, on a twice yearly basis. The format changed in 1999 to a single annual meeting at the ‘central’ Majestic Hotel in Harrogate. Meetings begin with a Guest Lecture on Friday evening followed by dinner. Saturday mornings provide an opportunity for neuroscience trainees to present their research and in the afternoon Consultant members describe the challenging and fascinating clinical vignettes for which NENA has become renown.

Trainees compete for 2 NENA prizes. The Liversedge Prize is awarded for the best research presentation and the Crawford Prize for the best clinical paper. The NENA Magnum is presented to the Consultant with the most interesting case.

NENA is funded by a small annual subscription from Consultant members and non-restricted educational grants from the pharmaceutical industry.  NENA will fund Bed and Breakfast accommodation at the Majestic Hotel to support trainees presenting at the meeting. Trainees who have presented at the NENA meeting and wish to travel to another centre outside the region for clinical of research training can also apply for the Tidswell travel grant of up to £500.