THE Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) and the Blind Centre Northern Ireland are getting ready to step out for the ninth annual White Cane Walk on Saturday, October 13.

The event, which consists of a five mile sponsored walk in and around Omagh town centre, involved 100 walkers last year and raised over £7,000 in aid of the charity supporting people with sight loss. Downtown country music DJ Warren Smith is set to get walkers on their way this year again.

"We're hoping for the same result this year, so we need as many people to join the walk as possible," said Ciara McKeown, Blind Centre manager.

"Funds are raised mostly through sponsorship sheets which are now available at the Centre, but also anyone can just come along on the day, contribute a small donation and join in.

SUPPORT

"We greatly depend on the community for their support and we are delighted that Warren Smith is able to join us again for this local initiative. His presence will help to heighten awareness of the event."

The walk falls closely to two other major events: World Sight Day on October 11 and International White Cane Day on October 15.

Since the merger of the two regional organisations in April 2007 the RNIB and Blind Centre provide combined services in employment support and IT, children's services, specialist equipment and social support in the community.

For more information, please contact staff at the RNIB and Blind Centre, 10 James Street, Omagh, telephone 8225 0220.