SUPPORT groups for those suffering with sight loss are set to return in person across North Wales for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The groups are organised by the Macular Society, and aim to offer information, encouragement and friendship to people affected by macular disease and other sight loss conditions.

The groups invite guest speakers on a variety of subjects, including macular conditions and the impact on daily lives.

Marian Williams, Macular Society regional manager for North Wales, said: “Since the pandemic began, we have run telephone services to keep people connected, who otherwise would be isolated and without much-needed support.

“Bringing the groups back face-to-face in a fun and safe environment, as we had done prior to the pandemic, is a brilliant step which brings people back together.

“We know these groups make such a difference and I can’t wait to see some familiar as well as new faces again.

“Everyone, be that people diagnosed with macular disease, their friends, family or carers are welcome.

“I just can’t wait to welcome people back.”

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with nearly 1.5million people currently affected, while around 300 people are diagnosed with the condition each day.

The groups will take place on a monthly basis, with face-to-face meetings to return across North Wales on the following dates:

- Pwllheli Support Group, April 1 at 1pm, Presbyterian Church, Ala Road, Pwllheli

- Llangollen Support Group, March 28 at 11am, The Hand Hotel, Llangollen

- Llandudno Support Group, Face-to-face meetings resumed in February, next meeting March 7, Cae Mor Hotel, 6 Penrhyn Crescent, Llandudno

- Bangor Town Support Group, April 11 at 1pm, Quaker House, Dean Street, Bangor

- Blaenau Ffestiniog Group, April 8 at 1pm, Siop Antur Stiniog, Blaenau Ffestiniog

- Dolgellau Support Group, April 20 at 1.30pm, Theatr Fach, Dolgellau

- Harlech Support Group, April 28 at 1.30pm, Caffi Cadi, Harlech

- Holyhead Support Group, April 19 at 10.30am, Mill Bank Community Centre, Holyhead

- Abergele Support Group, March 21 at 1.30pm, Hafod y Park, Abergele

For more information about your local Macular Society Support Group please contact Marian Williams on 07495 054053 or email marian.williams@macularsociety.org.

For more information on macular disease, call the Macular Society on 0300 3030 111 or email help@macularsociety.org.