In the mid-1800s, Cornwall was the most active mining district in the world with over 400 active mines and the largest producer of copper.

Mining for the tin and copper was a dangerous profession and sight loss was a common injury amongst miners as they were blinded in many blasting accidents due to the use of gunpowder to blast through rock.

It was from this that the first ‘Cornwall Blind Association’ was set up to support visually impaired people by making a positive difference and improving their lives.

First formed in 1944 and the longest running club for over 70 years now, Launceston was the first monthly lunch club set up by iSight Cornwall (then known as Cornwall County Association for the Blind) and was inspired by the success of Tea for the Blind socials organised by the charity in the years before the club’s formation.

In 1997 the name was changed to the Cornwall Blind Association.

The current Launceston Visually Impaired Club is made up of local people from all walks of life and of all ages who get together at different venues twice a month for lunch, banter, companionship, entertainment and socialising, where members get a special deal on a two-course meal plus tea or coffee. There is a draw and auction at each event which is always great fun. 

The club is fortunate enough to have a loyal and helpful band of fabulous volunteers with whom lifts can be arranged with volunteer drivers to transport members from their home to the venue and back home again afterwards.

A spokesperson said: “It’s always a challenge to tackle isolation and loneliness so it’s great to see most of the clubs up and running again and I’m sure many of the members like myself are very glad to be back socialising, singing, bowling, shooting, playing guitar and dancing again after what has been such a long time. 

“We like to help people get out and about to become more engaged with their local community as well as see new faces at our wonderful group. We are happy to welcome those in the area registered with a sight Impairment, so if you know of anyone that would like some informal advice and information on managing a sight impairment to enable them to lead a more independent and active lifestyle then please get in touch.”

The clubs are supported by iSight Cornwall who can offer advice on services and products to help support those living with sight-loss and to manage daily life as independently as possible. 

iSight Cornwall are based in Truro. For more information call 01872 261110, email [email protected] or you can visit www.isightcornwall.org.uk