VAO plans next steps at 30

This week Optician was invited to a drinks reception to mark the 30 year anniversary of Vision Aid Overseas.

Volunteers and key backers from the optical profession lined up to view a gallery of photos from the charity’s work in Africa, with the majority provided by optometrist-turned photographer Graham Coates. His efforts helped capture the work of VAO for more than a quarter of a century.

VAO is setting out to help an extra 30,000 patients this year and boost fundraising efforts by taking on the London Marathon and Great Ethiopian Run.

Mention of training for the endurance events caused quite a stir at the event, held on the banks of the Thames (see picture) but the unfaltering optometric efforts of volunteers over the years was warmly applauded.