THE chairman of Wychavon District Council donned his sunglasses to raise awareness of the damage too much sun can do to people's eyes.

Councillor Don Lawley met guide dog owner Ray Smith and his labrador Jim as part of the Blind Association's Shades Day, held nationwide.

The fund-raising day was organised to encourage people to protect their eyes when they are outside during the day by wearing sunglasses, a visor or a hat.

Research shows that over-exposure to the sun during teenage and early adult years can increase the chance of eye conditions such as cataracts in later life.

Coun Lawley said: "Shades day was a fantastic way to both raise money for guide dogs and to highlight the importance of wearing your sunglasses."