Optometrist plans for Zambia trip

Optometrist Farzana Jalil has been preparing to visit a remote area of Zambia to test eyes for charity later this month.

Jalil, of Specsavers in Romford, will be spending a fortnight in Solwezi screening local people's eyes and fitting second-hand spectacles for Vision Aid Overseas.

The group Jalil is joining would also help set up and establish a permanent clinic.

She said: 'I have had such a rewarding experience volunteering for VAO before that I couldn't say no to this opportunity. We take eye care for granted in the UK as we have opticians on every high street but it's amazing how much of a difference a pair of glasses can make to someone's quality of life in a developing country.'