VAO celebrates 25 years

Having a ball: Optical charity Vision Aid Overseas (VAO) celebrated 25 years of 'helping the world to see' at its anniversary ball on May 15 at London's Royal Exchange.

Guests included optical industry leaders, VAO volunteers and representatives from international eye care organisations as well ambassadors and dignitaries from the countries which receive aid.

Recognising the backing the charity receives from the optical professions and industry, its chairman, Marcus Swalwell, noted: 'The support Vision Aid Overseas receives reflects wonderfully on the optics profession and we should celebrate the culture and values that enables this enormous, widespread contribution.'