A BANGOR-BASED sight loss support group is looking for guest speakers to talk to group members at its monthly meetings.

The group, which is organised by national sight loss charity the Macular Society in partnership with volunteers, wants to hear from local opticians, ophthalmic consultants, GPs, or any professionals specialising in eye care or vision loss.

It is also urging any other experienced speakers who can give an entertaining or informative talk on general interest subjects to get in touch.

The Bangor Cae Garnedd Macular Support Group meets on the second Monday of every month, from 1.30-3.30pm at Cae Garnedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor.

It is one of more than 400 in the UK offering vital information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease. The group’s next meeting will be held on Monday 9 September.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK. Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk. The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement. There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50.

Marian Williams, Macular Society regional manager, said: “We are always looking for healthcare professionals who are willing to come and talk to our group members about the importance of good eye health and help that’s available locally for people with macular disease.

“But, as the main focus of the group is on sight loss, the members often like to vary things and hear about something completely different. So we’re also looking for anyone who can tell interesting stories or anecdotes about some fun or unusual subjects.

“If you are an experienced speaker and would be happy to deliver a talk to our group, we would love to hear from you.”

Contact Marian Williams on 07495 054 053 or email marian.williams@macularsociety.org

For information on macular disease call the Macular Society on 0300 30 30 111.