The College of Optometrists

03 October 2005

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An optometrist has raised over £2000.00 for Vision Aid Overseas by completing two half marathons in two weeks. Michael Offord, from Newcastle upon Tyne managed to complete both the Great North Run and the Windsor Half Marathon on consecutive weekends. And he didn’t hang about in completing either course, completing each event in 1hr and 37 minutes.

Setting himself and initial target of £1000.00, and smashing it easily within two weeks of fundraising, Michael decided to double his efforts and attempt twice as much. This was matched with an equally committed turn out on the day and, although blessed with good weather on both occasions, Mike had to work hard to beat his target of 1hr 40 minutes.

With both half marathons under his belt Michael is now turning his intentions on VAO’s overseas work and is planning to travel to India in January 2006. This project, his second with VAO, will give him an opportunity to use his professional skills to help hundred of people whose lives are blighted by poor eyesight. “I was delighted to be fundraising for VAO and really glad I reached my £2000 target – especially as I know what a massive difference this money will make to people in the developing world,” says Mike. “We take it so much for granted that not being able to get spectacles can mean no work and no food for some of the world’s poorest people. When all you need to end this terrible problem is eye testing skills and a pair of spectacles I don’t believe people can afford not to support the work of the charity.”

Vision Aid Overseas is organising 18 projects to the developing world this year and hoping to transform the lives of many thousands of people. There is still time to support Mike by visiting his fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/michaelofford.  For more information about Vision Aid Overseas please visit their website, www.vao.org.uk or contact their head office (01293 535016).