Hertsmere Council's Labour group leader Frank Ward was busy fundraising at Barnet Hospital's eye clinic where he was successfully treated for two cataracts.

"I now have 20-20 vision in both eyes, thanks to the expertise and dedication of the eye operations unit," said Mr Ward. "If I had a third eye, I would want it to be treated at Barnet Hospital."

The clinic launched a campaign on World Sight Day last Thursday to raise £70,000, to buy a digital laser camera called a Heidelberg Retina Angiograph, which gives a detailed diagnosis of eye conditions related to age or illnesses such as diabetes.

Suzanne Althauser, associate specialist at the clinic, said: "Age-related macular degeneration causes severe sight impairment in the elderly, and is the most common cause for blind registration in the United Kingdom.

"The digital imaging system will allow us to considerably improve our service, and enable us to play an active role in new treatment options."

The launch was also attended by the MP for Southgate and Enfield, Stephen Twigg and supported by the Hadley Wood branch of Lions Club International.

October 17, 2001 10:21