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Local opticians focuses on page turners

Specsavers Glossop team with store director Paul Hodgson (centre).

Televisions, computer monitors, phones and tablets have become a part of everyday life – regardless of our age – and it could be having a negative impact on our eyesight.

To combat the possible implications of too much screentime in children, two local businesses have joined forces to encourage children to turn to the written word and rekindle their love of reading books.

Coinciding with the upcoming National Read a Book Day next month (6 September), local opticians Specsavers on High Street West is offering children a free £5 book voucher from independently owned store Dark Peak Books & Gifts, also on High Street West, when they have an eye test this August or September. 

New research has found that children and teenagers have been spending more time in front of screens which has caused eye strain, blurred vision and dry eyes. It also showed that children are quite often switching between multiple devices at one time which can increase eye strain by 22 per cent.

Specsavers Glossop store director Paul Hodgson said: "Reading for fun is hugely important for children, not only does it improve literacy, vocabulary and communication skills, it can ignite creativity and stimulate imagination, which is why we’ve teamed up with Dark Peak Books & Gifts to encourage children to read more and get lost in the written word.

"To look after your child’s vision and ensure they can continue reading comfortably, it is recommended that they have an eye examination at least once every two years, or more often if advised by their optometrist." 

Dark Peak Books & Gifts owner Mel O'Brien added: "We’re delighted to be partnering with Specsavers to encourage children to embrace the world of books.

"Reading is a vital part of any child’s development.  Children who are read to are more likely to read independently and those who regularly read are more likely to do well in school and beyond." 

To celebrate National Read a Book Day on 6 September - a day which will see book lovers indulge in their favourite hobby, guilt-free – Specsavers and Dark Peak Books & Gifts are offering one young lucky reader a three-month Dark Peak Books ‘Subscription for Children’ worth £35. 

For every month of the subscription, they will receive their specially chosen book either hand-delivered locally or posted to further afield. To be in with a chance to win, book your child, grandchild, niece or nephew in for an eye test before the 30 September. For more information, call 01457 899560 or visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/glossop

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