DON'T be blinded by the light - that is the message from health chiefs as thousands flock to Devon and Cornwall to see the solar eclipse.

Although the south-west coast is the hot spot for the full eclipse on Wednesday, August 11, at 11am, health bosses are warning local people to be on their guard when the area experiences a 90 per cent eclipse of the sun.

NHS regional director of public health Professor John Ashton is urging onlookers not to risk their eyesight by looking directly at the sun.

He said: "Every parent or guardian has a duty to ensure that children and young people do not gamble with their eyesight by risking a glance at the eclipse.

"Sun glasses, smoked glass, film negatives and many of the so-called viewing aids which are currently on sale will not afford adequate protection.

"Far too many people suffered permanent eyesight damage during the last eclipse of the sun and a small number are now blind as a result. It isn't worth the risk."

To observe the rare event and protect your eyes the Department of Health are advising have people to use a pinhole projection viewer available from the Fight for Sight Charity on 0171 608 4000.

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