Have you backed Beacon Centre for the Blind's Second Site appeal yet?

YESTERDAY, thanks to the work we do with Wolverhampton's Novotel Hotel, I was given a guided tour of the city's Beacon Centre for the Blind - a facility I knew was there, had passed many times, but am a little embarrassed to admit, had never stepped foot inside.

Details of an exciting project between the centre and the Novotel are still being finalised, but yesterday's visit has shown me why such an event will be so worthwhile.

So what does the centre do exactly?

It's a local charity which promotes independence and choice to more than 3,000 visually impaired people in the Black Country and South Staffordshire.

Some 400 people a week visit its activity centre - I saw some wonderful pottery on show, I can tell you!

But community or 'outreach' support is equally important - with staff making more than 4,000 visits last year.

There's also a resources centre, with the latest equipment and training available, plus youth activities and a talking newspaper.

My first port of call was to see the residential accommodation, thanks to the hospitality of Barry and Pauline.

Barry is currently looking into setting up Beacon Backup groups to help raise much-needed funds. You can find out more from him on 01902 880111.

There's also a '60s Night' planned for June 13, from 8pm until midnight at Linden House in Tettenhall Road. Again, please ring Barry, on the number above, for details. And summer soul is coming to Seisdon on Saturday July 12, with a show by Xtreme Supreme, plus support. Of course the old 60s magic is before my time.

An on-going appeal is the chance to Buy a Brick to help build a new centre. Beacon Centre for the Blind is redeveloping its site to build an impressive new facility. It's hoped that 230,000 bricks - priced at £10 each - can be sold. Anyone buying 100 or more can join a roll of honour. Sounds a great way for local business to 'give something back.'

For the more daring among us there's a chance to take part in something called The Blind Drive on August 3. (No jokes about my 'normal' driving abilities please.) It will involve driving around an obstacle course blindfolded...but don't wory, it's a dual controlled car! Participants are asked to raise at least £100.

And last but not least, a glittering black tie event on May 22, will help boost the Second Site appeal. The Bollywood Royale themed night is at the Red Fort in Wolverhampton city centre and is sponsored by Hadens Solicitors and tickets cost £45.

I'd just like to say thanks again to Barry and Pauline and look forward to bringing you more news of what we are working on together.

If you would like to support the hardworking staff and volunteers to continue to make a difference to the lives of the people they help, then please support some of these events or click here. [Linda]