AN optician from Derwentside has collected 700 pairs of old glasses for an eyecare charity.
Specsavers in Consett is now appealing to people to help them collect another 300 pairs of glasses for Vision Aid Overseas by Christmas.
Since the store opened two years ago, customers have been handing over old spectacles.
The glasses will be used to help people in developing countries, who cannot access or afford proper eye care.
Colin Connor, ophthalmic director of Specsavers in Consett, said: "In this country, we have excellent access to some of the best eye care in the world with regular check-ups and financial assistance available when required.
"Many people in developing countries don't receive a proper education or are forced out of work as their eyesight deteriorates, therefore we are delighted to be able to help remedy this situation in any way we can."
Set up in 1985, the charity operates the largest spectacles recycling scheme in the country. It also sends teams of volunteer optometrists and dispensing opticians abroad to screen patients.
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