FIFTEEN ex-Gurkhas and Nepali elders took up an opportunity for free eye tests in Winchester last Thursday.

The event was the result of work between the Crafts & English Exchange group and Tesco Extra.

The Crafts & English Exchange group aims to boost confidence and improve the English of Nepali communities, since a lack of proficiency in English can exclude them from important services.

Fifteen pensioners visited the store between 10.30am and 3.30pm for eye examinations and all 15 required glasses. Around half of those needed two pairs, one for reading and one for general use.

Dawn Conchie, a volunteer at Winchester Area community Action, helped to organise the event.

She said: “This was a fantastic day and is a big achievement for the elders, who are now feeling much more confident. Having their eyesight back will really help them to be more independent and to feel safer in the local community.

“I was really touched when Kalimaya, who I’ve worked with for the last 11 months, came out of her eye test and gave me a huge hug, it made me realise just how important it was.”

Will Edwards, opticians manager at Tesco Extra in Winnall, said: “We were delighted to be able to welcome members of the local Nepali community to our store and to provide them with free eye tests.

“We had a fantastic day, colleagues really enjoyed being able offer their help and we’re already making plans for future visits.”