NEHW success for independent

An independent opticians group educated more than 200 people across Suffolk and Essex about how healthy eating can help improve sight.

Staff from the Observatory Group, which trades under the names of Observatory the Opticians and Wardale Williams, took to the streets of Ipswich, Southwold, Sudbury, Halstead, Leigh-on-Sea, Beccles and Haverhill to hand out healthy treats and educational information to people.

Members of the public enjoyed healthy juices and smoothies, and were given bags of leafy greens to take away, as part of a week-long initiative by the independent to mark National Eye Health Week (NEHW).

Will Norman, an optometrist at the independent, said that the initiative was very well received by the public. “We engaged with people of all ages who were very interested to learn how the high antioxidant value of many ingredients can help the eye by reducing cell degeneration,” he explained.

“Key chemicals such as lutein and zeaxanthin found in leafy greens and fruit and veg can significantly aid eyesight. There is also evidence to suggest regularly eating such foods may slow or prevent age-related macular degeneration – the leading cause of loss of vision in the UK.”

“Our treats were very popular with the public which allowed us to provide a fun way to distribute a very serious message,” Mr Norman emphasised.