The island needs more therapists to assist blind and visually impaired persons, according to the executive director of the charity Vision Bermuda.

Theresa Hall spoke at an event commemorating World Sight Day at City Hall on Thursday.

Ms Hall said: “Right now, there is only one vision rehabilitation professional on the island, who works with us.

“It is a very specialised field and they need a lot of training, but more than one [in Bermuda] would help the island’s visually impaired immensely.”

Ed Christopher, Hamilton’s town crier, read a proclamation on behalf of the charity and Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Social Development and Seniors, at the event.

Part of the proclamation read: “Vision is an invaluable gift that envisions our lives and enables us to experience the world around us in all its vibrancy and intricate details.

“Regular eye examinations play a pivotal role in detection and prevention of sight-threatening conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma and age-related maculate degeneration.”

The proclamation concluded: “I, town crier of the City of Hamilton, do declare this day World Sight Day and encourage all of Bermuda to get regular eye examinations and show love, patience and support to those with impaired vision and blindness.”

• Anyone beginning to lose their vision can call the charity on 292-3231 or 291-3232, e-mail info@visionbermuda.bm, or learn more at visionbermuda.bm