NEW figures from the Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB) show that almost 2,430 Herefordshire residents are in danger of going blind from glaucoma.

Because of this, Specsavers in Ledbury has been working to raise awareness of the condition in support if of Glaucoma Awareness Week, which will run until Sunday, June 23.

They have been "reminding locals of the importance of regular eye test in detecting the condition".

Glaucoma usually occurs when naturally-occurring fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, leading to a build-up of pressure. This can then cause damage to the optic nerve and nerve fibres from the retina, in most cases without any symptoms. While the condition cannot be reversed, it can be managed – but early detection is key.