Duke of Gloucester visits Northampton charity to celebrate 130 years of supporting people with sight loss
“The visit gave us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate that shared history and to look ahead with determination, so that no one in Northamptonshire has to face sight loss alone.” – Louise Danielczuk, chief executive of NAB Sight Support Northamptonshire
The Duke of Gloucester visited a Northampton charity celebrating its 130th anniversary – meeting people with sight loss, watching a ballroom dancing demonstration and recording a special message for its Talking News service.
His Royal Highness visited NAB Sight Support for Northamptonshire at its Sight Centre in Northampton on Tuesday, November 10.
The independent charity, founded in 1896, supports blind and visually impaired adults, children and families across the county.
During his visit, the Duke met people who use its services, alongside volunteers, staff, trustees and supporters, and learned about the support available.
Among the highlights was a ballroom and Latin dancing demonstration involving Alison and Tony, who shared their skills with the royal visitor.
The Duke also met Wes and Linda from Wes and Alex Dance School, who help deliver the charity's dance classes.
Alison is preparing to become the first visually impaired participant in a competition at Blackpool Tower Ballroom next April.
His Royal Highness also visited the charity's Talking News volunteers, led by long-serving staff member Stephen Pascoe.
He recorded an introduction for the next edition of Northampton Sound News, which helps visually impaired people keep up with local news and information.
The Duke also heard about NAB's community support home visits, Eye Clinic Liaison Officer services, children's and family support, education and training, and social activities.
The charity operates a Mobile Sight Centre, bringing advice and demonstrations of specialist equipment to communities across Northamptonshire.
Louise Danielczuk, chief executive of NAB Sight Support Northamptonshire, said: “It was an honour to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester as we mark 130 years of service to our community.
“This anniversary is a tribute to generations of staff, volunteers, supporters and partners, and above all to the people and families who place their trust in us.
“The visit gave us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate that shared history and to look ahead with determination, so that no one in Northamptonshire has to face sight loss alone.”
The Duke was presented with a history of NAB and unveiled a commemorative plaque marking his visit.
The charity says it is now focused on strengthening partnerships, maintaining its services and reaching more people affected by sight loss throughout Northamptonshire.
People can support NAB through volunteering, fundraising, donations or partnerships.
Further information is available through the charity's website.