AN OPTICIAN in Stroud has sent more than 9,000 pairs of spectacles to impoverished people in Sir Lanka following an ongoing collection with Stroud Rotary Club.

Over the past few months, Specsavers in King Street has been collecting unwanted specs to be cleaned, recycled and sent to the developing world. Store director Jonathan Bowen-Davies said: “We have been overwhelmed with the response and generosity of the public.

“We didn’t think we’d be able to gather so many glasses. It’s amazing to think that almost 10,000 people in Sri Lanka will now have access to affordable eyecare, better vision and a higher standard of education.

“We’re still collecting donations, so it would be great if anyone with any unwanted glasses could drop them into our collection box in-store.”

Lakshman Gallage from Stroud Rotary Club regularly travels to Sri Lanka to donate the recycled spectacles to those in need.

He said: “The frames are more expensive than the lenses in Sri Lanka so it’s very important that we’re able to supply so many.

“Over the years we’ve made contact with a growing number of local sponsors in Sir Lanka that are willing to supply new lenses free of charge. A lot of people will be better off now. I can’t thank the staff of Stroud Specsavers enough. They’ve been so helpful.”

For more information pop into the store or call 01453 766601.