PEOPLE in one of the world’s poorest countries are enjoying better sight thanks to a Minehead dispensing optician.

Christine James visited Ethiopia for two weeks in November on a Vision Aid Overseas project.

Along with three other women, Christine saw more than 1,500 people and they were able to dispense 1,200 pairs of glasses in the towns where they held clinics.

They also helped to invest in the future by training 40 students from the University of Gondar whilst there.

Christine, 55, said: “It was a joy to see people seeing more clearly for the first time.

“Others needed spectacles in order to be able to see to continue working, including school teachers.”

Vision Aid Overseas is hoping to be able to set up a new vision centre in conjunction with the university to provide permanent facilities in Gondar.

Christine added: “Thank you to everyone who supported this project, particularly B R James Opticians.”

Unwanted glasses can be donated for the work of VOA at B R James Opticians, 3 The Parks, Minehead.