At a Christmas party with a difference, guests put on simulation spectacles to find out how simple tasks such as dressing a Christmas tree, wrapping presents and tasting chocolate can become difficult when you can’t see clearly.

They were at a drinks reception and buffet which, with ticket sales, donations and a collection, raised £1,000 for the charity Support for Sight.

The event was organised by Saffron Walden solicitors Tees Law who have made Support 4 Sight its charity of the year. They held the event to launch their fundraising year, at the offices of Uttlesford District Council. Christmas music was played by a wind quintet of students at Linton Village College and among the guests was The Mayor of Saffron Walden, Councillor Heather Asker.

A film called A Light in the Dark was shown with two children who have deteriorating eye conditions explaining how their lives are affected. Support 4 Sight helps over 4,000 people in Essex each year. It holds eye clinics, has information desks in hospitals, a resource centre in George Street, Saffron Walden, and coffee mornings in Saffron Walden and Dunmow. It holds regular sessions where people can try out equipment.

Joan Hohnen, development coordinator for the charity said: “It was a great evening and we are very grateful to Tees Law for making us their charity of the year and supporting us in this very generous way. We would also like to thank Uttlesford District Council for allowing us to have such a good venue for no charge and Saffron Walden Laundry for the table cloths.”