Lutterworth opticians raise more than £2,200 for eye care project in Ghana

Specsavers Lutterworth held a special event to collect donations for Ashanti Development Project., with more than 75 people turning up.

So far, £2,200 has been fundraised for the initiative which gives people in remote villages in Ghana’s Ashanti region access to healthcare, eyecare and clean water.

Store director and optometrist, Abhijit Roy, will be one of those visiting the regin again in November.

She said: "The Ashanti Development is something that is close to all our hearts and it's always inspiring to see how generously our colleagues, customers and the local community get behind the fundraising efforts.

“Joining me on the trip in November will be a number of colleagues from several other Specsavers stores across the Midlands region. The trip itself is completely self-funded, meaning every pound raised helps support the charity's work directly and enables volunteers to continue providing access to eye care and other essential services to communities that would otherwise go without.

"We're incredibly grateful to everyone who attended the event and contributed towards such a fantastic amount.”

More than 100 pairs of glasses have also been donated by customers – and will be given to people who need them in the African country.

One of those who turned up for the curry night was Malvolia Benham and her husband Richard, whose niece, Agnes Oppong, is an optometrist living in Ghana. Agnes regularly volunteers with the Ashanti Development Project.

Malvolia said: “On a previous trip to Ghana to visit our niece we have seen first-hand the incredible difference the Ashanti Development Project makes. The eye care services provided by the volunteers have such a positive impact on people's lives, as does the wider work the charity does within local communities.

“We thoroughly enjoyed the fundraising evening. It was wonderful to spend time with so many supportive people, the food was excellent and there was a real sense of togetherness. We're so thankful for all the fundraising efforts and generosity shown. The money raised will make a huge difference to the people and communities the project supports.’