Bognor Regis man nominated for outstanding charity efforts

A BOGNOR Regis man has been nominated for an award to recognise his hard work and dedication to helping people with visual impairment.

Mark Upton, a contact officer for the charity 4Sight, has been put forward for the Macular Disease Society’s annual Support Service of the Year award.

The honour highlights his outstanding efforts to help improve the treatment, care, and quality of life of people with the condition.

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Macular disease affects the eyes and causes a loss of central vision. This can make carrying out everyday tasks such as shopping, reading, watching television and even recognising the faces of others very difficult.

Eric Colyer, who nominated Mr Upton, said: “4Sight are very good in supplying aids, such as special clocks, to people with visual impairment.

“They have started a group at a local church in Middleton.

“They are extremely helpful to people when they lose their sight, giving them all the information they need. They set up local exhibitions with visual aids for those wanting help.”

The award will be presented to a practitioner or team providing low vision or sensory services or emotional support. Statutory, commercial or voluntary services are all eligible.

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Mr Upton said: “I was quite excited and a bit shocked when I heard about the nomination.

“It’s good to know people appreciate what we do and really feel they are getting something out of it.

“I’m partially sighted, so from a young age I have known about 4Sight.

“I’m able to encourage people as well as help practically, so seeing people become more independent, get a job or meet new people is really nice.”

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Mr Upton’s nomination will be decided by a panel of judges before the winners are announced at the society’s annual London conference in September.

Helen Jackman, the society’s chief executive, said: “Mark Upton has done exceptionally well to be nominated for this award, and we’re very grateful to him for the fantastic work carried out in Bognor Regis.”

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