A TOWN centre opticians is urging parents to get their children's eyesight tested.

Research from the College of Optometrists highlighted that more than a quarter of children have never had an eye test.

But Specsavers, which is based at Golden Square shopping centre, hopes to change this by encouraging parents to make an appointment for their kids.

According to Specsavers, eyesight problems can be difficult for children to explain to their parents or teachers, which it believes can cause problems for them as poor vision can limit their ability to concentrate properly in class, leading to further problems down the line.

Store director Clare Kearns said: "There are a lot of different things that parents need to prepare before school begins in September and we, here in Warrington Specsavers, would like them to remember to book an eye test as well as shopping for new uniforms and backpacks.

"Younger children, in particular, can have a hard time noticing that there's a problem with their vision.

"It's better to be safe than sorry and if one of our opticians notices that they may need glasses they can get them all sorted in time for the new school year.

"Undetected problems with vision can damage a child's confidence and performance.

"Subtle signs such as poor handwriting, low-attention span or falling behind peers at school can indicate visual difficulties, so it's important that parents take them to get their eyes tested regularly."

Eye tests for children under 16 and in full time education are free on the NHS.

Specsavers is also continuing to support charities across the UK, including Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Sound Seekers, Brake, Kidscape and Vision Aid Overseas, for which stores have raised enough funds to build a school of optometry in Zambia, as well as open eye care outreach clinics in the country.

To book an appointment for an eye examination call 240351.