Horncastle News reporter takes part in Sight Awareness Day

There was a warm welcome from all the members and from District Governor Paul Stafford who was also on the ‘blind-fold’ list and it wasn’t long before we were lined up and ready for the off.

It doesn’t sound like a difficult task - be blind folded and walk along the street with a guide - but the reality is it is quite unnerving and everyone was very cautious as they headed off.

For me, losing all vision made me much quieter as I had to really think about where my feet were going, so there was certainly no time to chat.

But it was amazing how in quite a short space of time it seemed my other senses appeared to become heightened.

The feel of the street, dips in the pavement and the ridged areas denoting a crossing were definitely more pronounced, as were the smells of things around me.

People take for granted the issues the visually impaired face, so it was good to be able to experience that and hopefully gain a greater understanding.

I have nothing but admiration for those who live with sight impairment and confidently go about their daily lives.

Everyone should have this experience. Thank you Lions.