Optometrist warns of ready reader defects

An investigation by the Sunday Mirror (December 28) has found that 11 pairs out of 12 ready readers had defects that could cause eye strain.

Testing the spectacles from Poundland, Poundworld, Tesco, WH Smith, Marks & Spencer and Superdrug, Croydon optometrist Chris Kerr found that all but one had faults which could cause eye problems.

Four pairs with stronger prescriptions had more serious flaws, he said. ‘To find only one perfect pair out of 12 is quite depressing. They won’t cause you long-term serious harm but they may well have the potential to give you eye strain, headaches and blurred vision.’

The spectacles, priced from £1 to £10.50, were checked for lens strength, alignment of the lens and overall effectiveness. A £1 pair from Poundland had a large ‘wave’ across the surface of the left lens, while the strength of others (Poundworld, Tesco and Superdrug) was either higher or lower than required.