A STAFF member from a Keighley opticians will travel to east Africa to volunteer for a charity aiming to improve the eye health of people in the developing world.

Fiona Shoesmith, from Specsavers in Keighley, will go to Ethiopia as part of a trip organised with Vision Aid Overseas – a charity she is part of.

She will help establish "vision centres", where people can receive a walk-in eye examination, buy an affordable pair of glasses and be referred for further specialist care if necessary.

Specsavers Keighley will hold an African-themed fun day at Airedale Shopping Centre on Saturday August 5 to raise money for the charity.

Members of the public can enjoy a tombola with prizes donated from the local community, as well as face painting.

Raj Gill, store director at Specsavers in Keighley, said: "We’re so proud of Fiona for using her skills to help other people in need.

"Travelling to Ethiopia is a big feat and will be a challenge, so we want to raise as much money as we can."

Steve Seymour, Airedale Centre manager, said: "Specsavers has organised a fantastic fundraising event and we're anticipating it will attract huge crowds. "The centre is very passionate about all the charity initiatives our stores organise and this one promises to be a really enjoyable day for a great cause.

"We're in huge admiration of Fiona and the work she'll be doing in Ethiopia. We wish her the best of luck.

"She has an amazing team behind her at Specsavers and with so many activities planned to help raise money for the visit, I’m sure shoppers will be showing their full support."