Specsavers in March is lending has called on residents to become more aware of their eye health as part of National Glaucoma Awareness Week and Diabetes Week.

The Broad Street optician is offering free eyecare advice and information on both diseases.

Trevor Clark, store director, said: “Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the UK’s working-age population. People with diabetes are 10-20 times more likely to go blind, due to a condition known as diabetic retinopathy.

“‘However, if retinopathy is detected early through an eye examination and treated, blindness can be prevented in 90 per cent of cases. This is one of the reasons why we recommend an eye examination every two years.

“Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness among adults in the UK. The condition is serious but in the majority of cases it is treatable as long as it is detected early enough through regular eye examinations.

“Anyone over the age of 40 with a first degree relative who suffers from glaucoma is entitled to an NHS eye examination in-store as their chance of developing the condition is increased.

“People of African-Caribbean origin are also four times more likely to develop the condition than those of European origin so it is important that they are aware of this risk and attend regular eye examinations.

“We firmly support National Glaucoma Week and would urge everyone to take care of their eye health, especially if they are at higher risk of developing the condition.”

• For more information, visit Specsavers March at 5 Broad Street March, call 01354 607 120 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/march