ONE in five children in the area could be struggling at school because of sight problems their parents know nothing about, according to a report out today.

The Royal National Institute of the Blind is now urging parents to book free eye tests for their children.

This week the RNIB Children's Eye Health week, parents will be encourage to take youngsters for eye tests in a bid to combat health conditions and corrective sight.

The move comes as the RNIB revealed that most parents believe their children receive eye tests routinely in school.

Mori Hamadanian, RNIB spokesperson, said: "Children rarely tell their parents that they cannot see well, as they don't realise they have a sight problem.

"But a free eye test at your local optician can help diagnose a problem.

"Some conditions such as short or long sight, eye muscle co-ordination problems and most lazy eyes can be corrected, and glasses are not always necessary."

RNIB suggests that parents look for the following five signs in their children which could indicate poor vision if a child might...

Seem distracted and find it difficult to make friends.

Blink more than usual or be irritable when doing close-up work.

Sit very close to the television and hold objects to their eyes.

Tend to have headaches after using computers or reading.

Complain of itchy eyes or irritable eyes.

For more information call 0845 766 9999.