BLIND and partially sighted people have been experiencing life in the fast lane, thanks to a rally-driving optician.

David Stockton, director of Specsavers, in Newport Road, Middlesbrough, was in the driving seat for the sponsored Blind Drive Challenge held at the Nissan Test Track, near Sunderland.

The event gave partially sighted and blind people the chance to drive a duel-controlled vehicle around the track, sitting alongside a qualified instructor. People with sight undertook the challenge blindfolded.

Those taking part were then given the chance of experiencing a drive around the track as passengers of Mr Stockton and fellow rally drivers.

He said: 'The organisers of the event asked me to take part and when they explained what it was all about I thought it was a great idea and jumped at the chance.

"Specsavers Optical group has just announced that it will be supporting Guide Dogs as our official charity for the second year running, so I thought it was very fitting that I take part.''

The aim of the challenge was to raise funds for Guide Dogs, with an initial target of raising £8,000, but £12,000 was collected.

Debbie Wheeler, from Guide Dogs, said: "We never expected to raise such a phenomenal amount of money and I would like to say a huge thank you to all the participants who raised this fantastic sum.

"We're also grateful to David and everyone else who gave their support to make the event such a success.'

Mr Stockton is a regular on the region's rallying circuit in his Specsavers branded Subaru Impreza.