Large-print hymn books for the partially sighted are set to take off around the country thanks to a chance conversation between two Worcester women.

Linda Ohlson, from the city council's parks and cemeteries department, was told by Sandy Bannister, of the Worcestershire Association for the Blind, that its members couldn't read the Funeral Services Book at Astwood Cemetery.

She approached publishers Canterbury Press and the result is a new book, bound in dark green with gold blocking, with a type size of 18 points - almost twice that of the original edition.

The book, which is being launched this month, has also been printed on off-white paper to reduce glare. Around 100 books are to be ordered for the city.

"I approached the publishers and was surprised to hear that no large print edition was available," said Ms Ohlson.

"I gather they first had to get authorisation from the Archbishop's Council Liturgical Commission before they could begin, but at least it's now in print.

"The fact that the book is set to become a regular feature of funerals throughout Britain is an added dimension."

Sandy Bannister said she is delighted that the book has been produced.

"The success of this project shows what can be achieved when disability organisations and local councils work together," she said.

Publisher Clive Edwards paid tribute to both organisations, particularly the WABs input on the print size and colour.

"With the full implementation of the Disabilities Discrimination Act due in the near future, demand for a large-print edition has increased dramatically over the past year or so," said Mr Edwards.

"But it was typified by the approach to us from Worcester, which particularly highlighted the need."