BROMSGROVE'S first citizen is donning his shades to promote the work of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Councillor Craig Lanham, who is chairman of Bromsgrove District Council, is appealing to as many people as possible to join him in supporting national Shades Day on Friday, June 30. He wants townsfolk to make a £1 donation to wear tinted specs and raise awareness of eye care.

To help publicise the event, Craig is meeting up with local guide dog owner Paula Dufour and her canine companion Riley, who is a six-year-old golden retriever labrador cross.

"It is very important that we look after our eyes, especially when the sun shines," he said.

"We are all aware of the sun's harmful effects on our skin, but the effects on our eyes are less well known.

"It is vital that we all realise the importance of eye care."

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has invested more than £10 million into researching the causes of eye conditions.

The association's Tom Pey said: "Funding research into eye diseases is essential to understand the causes of blindness and how to help prevent sight loss.

"There are simple measures that everyone can take to look after their eyes and potentially save their sight."

Anyone who would like to take part in Shades Day can visit the Guide Dogs' special website at www.shadesday.org.uk or telephone 0845 600 6768. For more information on eye health visit www.healthyeyes.org.uk