If however you do not live near the practice, this is a useful link to find an Optometrist near you, where you can drop in your unwanted spectacles. Just click on Vision Aid Overseas

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There is a meeting in Newcastle for those who are interested.

Visit http://www.glaucoma-association.com/ for more information

28 February 2012 – A team of 8 volunteers narrowly escaped the snow at Heathrow in early February to embark on an exciting new project in Burkina Faso.

Asmaa Ahmad, Laura Bennett, Richard Fielding, Raj Kukadia, Rachel Murray, Shivani Tandon, Michael Offord and team leader, Caroline Clarke took part in the first training programme in the country.

This was also an opportunity to expand on Vision Aid Overseas’ eye care provision for patients. For many, it was the first time they had had an examination, and a substantial number were referred for pathologies such as cataract and glaucoma. In total, the team saw over 2,800 patients and dispensed in excess of 2,200 pairs of glasses.

The training presented an exciting challenge as it had to be delivered in French, the official language. The four trainees were all eye care workers from Ouagadougou University Hospital. Prior to departure, Vision Aid Overseas Trustee Rachel North had kindly arranged for the teaching material to be translated into French and simultaneous presentations in the two languages, aided by some superb translators, proved to be successful.

Caroline Clarke said, ‘I am thrilled that the project was such a success, due to the dedication of the team, and their ability to think on their feet!’

Amanda Nasser, Programme Director for Burkina Faso remarked, ‘It was a very successful project that combined direct service with training in refraction which was well received by the trainees.’

Optometrist of the Year Interview

Michael was  shortlisted to one of three optometrists from across the whole of the country,  these nominees were chosen for their level of commitment and contribution to the world of optometry.

Michael recently attended the annual Association of Optometrists ball, where the results were given and Michael picked up his prestigious award as pictured.

Michael summed up his feelings after receiving the award - ”I am obviously delighted in being honoured and recognised in this way, but have been humbled by the level of support  people like yourselves have given me. My sincere and heartfelt thanks to you all”.

Think about what sort of look you would like to create? If you want to turn heads, go for bold, strong heavier styles with thicker patterned temples. Fine wire frames, rimless or half-rimmed can give a more subtle or sophisticated look.
Ideally try on as many different styles and colours as possible, even ones that you wouldn’t normally choose as they can look totally different on, than when viewed on a frame rack.

When choosing your new frame think about your face shape. By wearing the right shape frame it can balance your facial features.
Most people fall into one of the below categories, which can be helpful as a guide when choosing your new spectacles:

Square: You have a face which is as wide as it is long, with a square jaw line. Go for softer shaped frames with oval lines, avoiding angular or square shapes.

Oval: You’re in luck! The ideal face shape with well balanced high cheekbones, a forehead that is just slightly wider than the jaw which should be gently curving. Most frames will suit, just make sure the size is in proportion to your head size.

Round: Short in length, with a wide forehead and full cheeks the round face shape should opt for frames that are squarer in shape, and wider rather than deeper. Avoid round frames which will only make the face look rounder.

Long Oblong: Your face is longer than it is wide, with high cheekbones and a long forehead.
Go for styles that are heavier on top, strong square shapes work well for balancing a narrow face but be careful not to choose a frame that is too wide; ideally your eyes should be in the centre of the lenses.

Heart: The heart shaped face is wide at the forehead and cheekbones, but then becomes narrow at the jaw line and chin. Go for slender, rounded or square styles but avoid any that are wider on the top of the frame than at the bottom as this will emphasise the heart shape rather than deflect from it.

Colours of frames should compliment your skin tone.
Cool skin tones have blue or pink undertones and should plump for black, silver, gunmetal, purples, blue or pink frames colours
Warm skin tones have a ‘peaches & cream’ or yellow cast. Frame colours that suit best include bronze, gold, copper, red, orange and khaki.

Be aware that when opting for ‘Transition’ lenses- (these are lenses that are clear indoors but darken in the sun,) that they should match the frame colour when lenses are both clear and dark.

The procedure is painless and non-invasive, and involves the optometrist taking a digital photograph of the back of your eye.  The image is then stored on computer for future use and is invaluable to refer back to, and monitor changes in the health of your eyes at subsequent examinations.

To promote the benefits of retinal photography we are offering this for *£10 instead of the usual price of £15.

Please mention at the time of booking your appointment if you would like to take advantage of this offer.

*offer available until 31/08/11

Modern day coatings now incorporate anti-scratch and hydrophobic properties, resulting in a lens that has a prolonged life, is repellent to water and easier to clean.