A visually-impaired youngster from Mirfield was given the VIP treatment aboard the London Eye after winning a writing competition.
Lily Walsh, 11, is a member of Huddersfield Actionnaires, one of charity Action for Blind People’s 23 multi-activity clubs for blind and partially-sighted children.
The Castle Hall School pupil won the competition by describing what she liked most about Huddersfield Actionnaires club.
Lily – and four other winners and their parents – were welcomed aboard a VIP London Eye capsule.
And like most people with sight loss, Lily has some vision, allowing her to enjoy the stunning views.
Lily said: “I could see so much, from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, and all the skyscrapers. Sounds played whilst we went round.
“There was the noise of a submarine, which was funny as we were in the air, not under water!”
The winners were also given a tour of Action for Blind People’s resource centre at RNIB’s head office near King’s Cross Station.
They sampled gadgets designed to help partially sighted people live more independently including vibrating bank note detectors, talking microwaves and electric magnifiers.
Lily said: “There was so much for people with sight loss. My mum bought me a large-print Sudoku game, which will be great fun as I like games and quizzes.
“There was also a big numbered calculator. That was cool.”
James Carey, from Action for Blind People, said: “Lily was so excited about this special day. It was both a learning experience, sampling the technology at our resource centre, and a deserved treat aboard the London Eye.
“Actionnaires is about giving blind and partially-sighted children, aged four to 16, opportunities to get involved in social activities and sport, helping them to make friends and build self-confidence.”
For more information about Action for Blind People’s activities for children and young people visit the website Actn.it/Children-Club or email James.Carey@actionforblindpeople.org.uk
