ELDERLY people in Bury will now have a better view of the world thanks to the introduction of free eye tests.

Health Secretary Frank Dobson announced free tests for everyone aged 60 or over earlier this week, claiming it could help to save the sight of more than half-a-million people.

For the past ten years free NHS tests have only been available to children, people on low incomes and those at risk of eye disease.

Mr Dobson said: "Restoring free eye tests is part of our plan to modernise the NHS.

"This change will help us deliver our commitment to promoting long, healthy lives and better access to services."

Mr Sid Pritchard, vice chairman of the Bury Society for the Blind and Partially Sighted, welcomed the news.

"It is certainly a good thing as people are often put off by the price and do not go to have their eyes tested when they really need to."

He added: "Maybe now certain eye conditions will be diagnosed early on when they are still treatable."

A Bury and Rochdale Health Authority spokesman, said: "We welcome this measure. It will improve health and allow people over the age of 60 to have the same opportunities to protect their eyesight."

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