BOB Cox barely knew what his children looked like before a pioneering eye operation saved his sight.

And now the 46-year-old from Lea, Preston, earns his living by spotting minute cracks on gas pipes which helps save people's lives.

Bob was born with unusually small eyes which meant he only saw the world at half its real size.

At school, he was endlessly teased about his 'jam jar specs' and teachers thought he had learning difficulties until they realised he simply couldn't see the blackboard.

It was only when the Manchester man moved to Preston that he found out about hi-tec laser treatment to correct his condition. His optician put him forward for the complex surgery involving lens implants and re-shaping his eyes, with follow-up ops and treatment over four years.

Now Bob has perfect sight to root out minute rust spots on Lancashire's network of gas pipes before they explode.

Bob said: "I was like a deaf man who could only hear mumbles through a trumpet. After the op, it was like walking into a room and hearing a sound for the first time.

"Everyday jobs became easier. I could trim my beard, tell which was the shampoo bottle in the shower, watch TV properly and read maps when fell-walking. I could even see my children properly for the first time."

However, Bob had to take his driving test all over again to see if he could throw his glasses away for good - and he passed!

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