Startling statistics were highlighted at an event in Congleton this week hosted by East Cheshire Eye Society and Congleton Lions.

Visitors, including Congleton town councillors and staff, were told that 'more than 1,000 people in the town are likely to be suffering from sight loss, where glasses or contact lens can't bring their sight back to what is considered 'normal'.

The event offered the opportunity to learn about various types of sight loss and try out some of the glasses that simulate that type of vision.

Only four per cent of people registered as blind or severely sight impaired have no vision.

Now the Congleton Town Council is keen to hear more from local residents who suffer from sight loss on actions it would like to see the town council take to make it easier for them to communicate with the council or join in activities in Congleton.

A number of quick wins were raised at the session, including using matt laminates, matt paper, greater use of Audio QR codes and plain text formatted documents on the website.

Concern was also raised about unexpected items on the pavement which creates issues for people with sight impairment and guide dogs.

Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Rob Moreton, who attended the session said: "It was an enlightening session. We are fortunate that the East Cheshire Eye Society and Congleton Lions are able to support local residents with sight loss and have a great deal of knowledge about the support available.

"As a council, we are looking at what we can do to make life easier for our residents who are visually impaired as part of a wider disability-positive movement and are keen for residents to share their experiences with us by calling 01260 270350 ext 1 or emailing [email protected]."

The group holds a support group at New Life Church on West Street, Congleton on alternative Wednesdays from 2pm – 4pm and a Café Coffee Club drop-in once a month.

The next drop-in will be at the Lion and Swan on Thursday 19October from 2pm -3.30pm. Visually impaired people can also apply to receive the Congleton Talking Newspaper on a weekly basis, which includes extracts from Congleton Chronicle and the Bear Necessities – contact 07592 965600.