A BLIND veteran from Pembrokeshire is spending the Christmas period with more than 30 other vision-impaired ex-Service men and women at Blind Veterans UK’s rehabilitation centre in Rustington.

Chris Raine, 84-years-old and from Haverfordwest, would have been spending Christmas alone due to his nearest relatives living in remote parts of Yorkshire and Scotland.

He said: “It’s really nice to spend Christmas with other blind veterans, and I’m especially looking forward to catching up with a good friend of mine, 90-year-old Colin from Milford Haven for the week.”

During their stay the veterans have the opportunity to enjoy a whole host of festive activities including Christmas movies, a trip to the panto, Christmas crafts, a traditional lunch with all the trimmings, and a quiz.

Chris joined the Royal Air Force in 1957 and served as a radio radar technician. He has very fond memories of a long career serving all over the world for almost 40 years.

Chris’ sight loss developed rapidly and when he encountered some serious changes to his vision while driving, he quickly made an appointment to see an optician who diagnosed wet macular degeneration.

He says: “The optician referred me to a specialist straightaway and at the first appointment they told me that I would no longer be able to drive. It was upsetting but ultimately, I knew that it was the safest thing for me and other people.”

Fortunately, Chris found out about Blind Veterans UK and started receiving support from the charity in 2019.

“When I first got in touch with Blind Veterans UK I went for a welcome week at their centre and found out about the support I could get, including getting an iPad and an invitation to another week at the centre to learn how to use it.

“Unfortunately Covid hit after that first week and so the iPad was sent to my home and with some remote support I learned how to use it. I find it marvellous. I don't have to see anything. I just talk to it and put my finger on it and it tells me where I am and what I'm doing. I can read library books, check emails and much more so it’s very handy.”

Blind Veterans UK’s Rustington Centre Manager, Kellie Darcy-Pattenden, says: “Christmas can be a difficult time for those who might otherwise be on their own, so it means a great deal to welcome our veterans here at Rustington. Our centre becomes a home away from home, full of festive cheer, companionship, and a chance to indulge a little. Most importantly, it’s about being surrounded by people who understand and share the same experiences, so no one feels alone at this special time of year.”

Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans like Chris, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.

Chris says: “If any veterans have been given a sight loss diagnosis they should definitely get in touch with Blind Veterans UK. Having a network of other blind veterans to meet and talk to is more beneficial than anything. There are local social gatherings that are supported by wonderful volunteers who drive and help us get together. It makes a real difference”

If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/apply