On Wednesday 5 December RNIB's Eye Pod simulator came to Durham giving local Councillors the chance to learn more about avoidable sight loss.
After entering the Pod visitors are able to view the world through cameras that simulate the perspective of someone living with one of the four most common eye conditions, Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy and Cataracts.
50 per cent of all sight loss is avoidable and the Eye Pod helps to remind people of the importance of regular eye tests, good diet and lifestyle in reducing the risk of developing an eye condition.
Councillors were given advice and information on how to improve the provision and planning of local services for blind and partially sighted people. Other visitors were asked to pledge to get their eyes tested within the next few weeks or months.
A touch of festive spirit was added to the day when Father Christmas visited the Pod to lend his support to our message.