A PARTIALLY sighted Bamber Bridge man is setting up a service for adults with learning disabilities as part of his work for the Preston Guild Volunteer Bureau.

Former hotel worker Colin Farmer, who lost his sight three years ago, is aiming to develop the skills of people with disabilities in order to help them set up their own business. He believes the skills he has gained while working in the tourist industry could help other disabled people set up on their own.

Colin, 64, of Seven Acres, Bamber Bridge, lost his sight rapidly, through diabetes, three years ago.

After retirement Colin became involved with the Preston Volunteer Bureau through work with Action for Blind and Preston Disabled Information Service Centre (DISC), in Church Street, where he still volunteers three days a week. Despite the initial shock of going blind the father-of-two admits he was determined not to wallow in self pity. "For the first twelve months I thought: 'Why me?' Then I got up and did something," he said.

But Colin, who hails from Herefordshire, is quick to pay tribute to his wife, Margaret of 32 years, and children Phillip, 28, and Helen, 25, who, according to Colin, "spoil" him to bits and have always been there in his hour-of-need.

Melanie Close, manager of Preston DISC, said: "I could do with 20 more like Colin. His experience as a disabled person is invaluable."

Now, with his new venture in the pipeline, Colin is eager to get started. To find out more about his new initiative call Preston DISC on 558863.