STROUD youngsters have been treated to a summer surprise after a trip to their local opticians.

Specsavers, at 22 King Street, held a kids clinic day during the summer holidays, encouraging parents to use the time off school as an opportunity to get their children’s eyes tested.

Each child who had an eye examination was treated to a free Cotswold Ice Cream (courtesy of Kendrick Street Deli) and was transformed into their favourite character by a face painter.

James Jennings and Aaran Racineas from Forest Green Rovers were also on hand to talk about health and fitness and how important good eye care is for sport.

‘We know the summer holidays can seem like a long six weeks for parents but it’s a great time to get their children’s eyes tested so they’re ready to start the new school year,’ says Riz Choonara, store director at Specsavers in Stroud. ‘About 80 per cent of what is taught in schools is done visually so being able to see clearly is incredibly important in your child’s overall development.’

At Specsavers all under-16s get a free NHS eye test.

All glasses in Specsavers’ kids’ £64 and teens’ £85 ranges are free with under-16s’ NHS funding.

Specs wearers can also choose a second pair from the £64 or £85 range for free.

Both pairs can come with SuperTough Trivex® single vision lenses with a scratch-resistant treatment, or tinted prescription lenses and a UV filter free in the second pair.

For more information or to make an appointment, call into the Specsavers store at 22 King Street, Stroud, GL5 3DE, call 01453 766601 or visit specsavers.co.uk/stroud