A FORMER bus driver who is now blind is preparing to get back behind the wheel to raise funds for charity.

Lorna Jones, 44, is to take part in a sponsored drive on a race track in aid of the North-East branch of Guide Dogs for the Blind.

She will be accompanied by another driver in a dual-controlled car for the challenge, at the Nissan test track, in Sunderland, on June 5.

Five years ago, Mrs Jones was a bus driver on routes around Darlington and Bishop Auckland, Ferryhill, Evenwood and Chilton, in County Durham.

But after suffering problems with her sight, she was diagnosed with an inflammation of the optic nerve and is now blind in one eye and has little sight in the other.

Mrs Jones, who is studying word processing at Darlington College of Technology, "can't wait" to take her driving challenge.

"I used to really love driving. It's one of the biggest things I miss now I cannot see," she said. "I've collected more than £100 so far and hope to raise more. It will be great to get behind the wheel again."

To make a donation, call the Tyne and Wear fundraising team on 0113-275 6326.