HUNTINGDON MP Jonathan Djanogly had his eyes opened to the value of eyecare services when he visited a St Neots optometrist during his election campaign. Mr Djanogly spent time at Adlam & Coomber Optometrists in St Neots to find out about the services off

HUNTINGDON MP Jonathan Djanogly had his eyes opened to the value of eyecare services when he visited a St Neots optometrist during his election campaign.

Mr Djanogly spent time at Adlam & Coomber Optometrists in St Neots to find out about the services offered by the company, and how the services interact with other healthcare providers.

He was joined by healthcare professionals, sight charities and patients, all at the invitation of optometrist Sue Martynski.

Mr Djanogly said: "With two million people in the UK currently at risk of losing their sight - of which half is preventable - it is now clear to me that everyone should attend their local optometrist for routine eye examinations.

"The wide range of professional, analytical, in-depth eyecare services available in the local optometric practice, combined with the excellent links they have with local hospitals and GPs provides a high quality and invaluable service to all members of the local community."

Mrs Martynski explained how many diseases, which previously could have led to blindness, are now preventable with an early trip to the optometrist. She demonstrated the techniques used to detect and treat glaucoma, diabetes and cataracts.

Angela White Horan, of Society for the Blind, said: "Losing one's eyesight has a devastating impact on the life of the person - they suddenly lose their independence, have to come to terms with their loss and relearn how to manage their day-to-day life.

"Family members and friends suddenly become intensive carers and have to provide massive support to their loved one.

"Blindness does not just affect one person, it affects a whole family.