A CHARITY which has kept blind and visually impaired people in touch with local news has celebrated its 45th anniversary.
More than 35 volunteers, listeners and guests of Vale Talking News (VTN), gathered for afternoon tea at Raphael’s Restaurant, Hampton Ferry on August 4 to mark the momentous milestone.
Founded in 1980, VTN has provided audio recordings of news, interviews and articles to the sight impaired community across the Vale of Evesham.
Recordings are made every two weeks throughout the year and posted out to listeners on a USB memory stick with the aim of ensuring they feel part of the community and hear about events happening locally.
The service is provided free of charge to registered listeners, with recordings available to the wider public via valetalkingnews.co.uk and the Amazon virtual assistant technology Alexa.
Anyone with a sight impairment is welcome to register for this free service.
Chair Fran Webb said the event was an opportunity for service users to meet the people who make the recording. “It was absolutely fabulous and there was a wonderful atmosphere. It was a true celebration with volunteers looking after our listeners.
“I am so proud of them, it is a special achievement to have kept going for 45 years.”
VTN is compiled by a team of volunteers, at a recording studio in John Martin’s Charity office, Evesham. As a voluntary organisation new volunteers are always welcome, added Fran.
Anyone interested should contact her on 07759 832321.
