World famous flautist supports the For Sight Appeal

The world renowned flautist, Sir James Gallway, took time out of his busy touring schedule to support the launch of Cornwall Blind Association’s For Sight Appeal.

Sir James, who has the eye condition Nystagmus, which causes the uncontrolled movement of the eyes and reduced vision, was keen to support the charity.

"I know what it is like to be visually impaired and it can be a big inconvenience. I want to encourage people to help by just giving something to the For Sight Appeal - any amount will do. It will be appreciated by so many."

Cornwall Blind Association, the only local charity which exists to improve the lives of an estimated 12,000 visually impaired people living in Cornwall, offers specialized support to individuals with any kind of visual impairment. This may mean they have minor sight loss, connected to an eye condition, or they can be registered blind.

As part of the For Sight Appeal, launched at Royal Cornwall Show, the charity's fundraisers are calling for everyone in the community to ‘Be Bright for Sight' and ‘Get Involved'. A rollling 12-month programme of themed events has been planned to inspire all different kinds of people to ‘Be Bright' and take part.

Debbie Henshaw, Community and Events Fundraiser explains, "It is all about being active in as bright a way as possible. The Gardening month in July will see people all over the county opening their colourful gardens or hosting garden parties to raise funds for the For Sight Appeal".

The charity are asking individuals, clubs and organizations to take part in planned activities as well as organizing fundraising events that will help to raise awareness and funds for the charity's work.

"Please join us at this very exciting time in Cornwall Blind Association's history," says Debbie, "it will ensure visually impaired people gain greater independence and a better quality of everyday life.

An information pack which gives tips and ideas on how you can get involved is available by contacting Debbie on: 01872 266709 07966 845 321 or dhenshaw@cornwallblind.org.uk

Photograph: (left to right) Carol Horth, volunteer fundraiser, Simon Henshaw, volunteer, Debbie Henshaw, Community Fundraiser, Sir James Gallway, Martin Pallett, Chief Executive and Terri Rosnau, Chair of Cornwall Blind Association.