JUDITH Searle, dispensing optician and director of Exmoor Eyecare Opticians, received an unexpected ‘recognition award’ for services for Vision Aid Overseas.

Over the years, Judith has spent several weeks at a time abroad, volunteering to teach local people in outreach clinics in Zambia, Ethiopia and, more recently, Sierra Leone to dispense glasses to improve their vision.

“Glasses, that our patients no longer require are donated and recycled so that the people in these countries can see clearly again,” said Judith who is planning to visit Serra Leone again later this year.

She was presented with the ‘Trustees Recognition Award’ at the annual Vision Aid Overseas AGM a few weeks ago and was congratulated for all her efforts and enthusiasm for work over the past several years.

Judith is now training to be a Vision Aid Overseas leader so she will be conducting her own visits and leading the party of optometrists over the next few years.

Vision Aid Overseas in a registered charity that was founded in 1985 by a group of optometrists. The group was shocked by the number of people, especially children, who were disabled and disadvantaged by poor eyesight simply due to the lack of access to affordable eye tests and glasses. 

The charity works to ensure everyone, regardless of their gender, economic status and geographical location, has access to affordable eye care services and glasses through outreach clinics, vision centres and training centres.

People can donate their old glasses, preferably in good condition, at Exmoor Eyecare in Minehead and Watchet.