AN opticians is urging people to keep up with their eye tests – and help relieve strain on the NHS.

Specsavers, which has a branch in Keighley's Airedale Shopping Centre, says the tests can help detect a variety of conditions which otherwise could result in a visit to hospital.

Giles Edmonds, for Specsavers, said: "Our eyes – and ears – can give us indications of wider health concerns so it is important we have regular check-ups.

"Hospitals are already at peak levels for bed occupancy and we are warned that staff will be stretched during what is predicted to be an unprecedented winter. Therefore it's important we’re all doing what we can, and ensuring eye tests are up to date will help alleviate the strain."