A FORMER Royal Navy seaman who is now blind can indulge again in his passion for museums thanks to support from a charity volunteer.

Michael Gray, 73, from Durham City, is accompanied on his trips by Robin Trounson, a volunteer from Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision impaired ex-service men and women.

Since January, when Mr Trounson came on board, the duo have visited the Oriental Museum in Durham, the city’s Botanical Gardens and also the National Railway Museum in Shildon.

Mr Trounson said: “Michael likes museums, but unfortunately his enthusiasm is not shared by his family, so he rarely gets the chance to visit them.

“We visited the Oriental Museum where we focused mainly on the Egyptian collection. “Unfortunately the lighting wasn’t great inside, but we got round this by me reading out loud the many information boards on display."

He added: “Every time we meet up I have an enjoyable time. I’m actually familiar with many of the places we visit, but Michael’s interest and gratitude makes the experience both novel and rewarding.”

Mr Gray, who served in the Royal Navy from 1959 to 1970, said: “Blind Veterans UK has been the best thing that could have happened to me.

“Beforehand, if I’m honest, I felt left on a bit of a limb, whereas now, thanks to Blind Veterans UK, I now feel part of a large family.

“I’m particularly grateful for days such as the ones Robin and I get to share visiting museums, as well as for the help I’ve received in my garden.”

To volunteer for Blind Veterans UK and make a difference in your local community visit blindveterans.org.uk/volunteer.