A BLIND Navy veteran has thanked a national charity which has helped him do things he would have never imagined he could do after losing his sight.

John Dix, 86, joined the Royal Navy in 1947, aged 19. After training he served for eight years, eventually becoming an acting petty officer stoker.

It wasn’t until many years after he was discharged in 1954 that John lost his sight. He was able to apply for free support from Blind Veterans UK, which helps blind veterans regardless of when they served or how they lost their sight.

He said: “I remember when I first visited Blind Veterans UK and spent a week having my induction at one of its centres.

“I was totally amazed by all that they did for their veterans, as were all of the others who had just joined – it just seemed so extraordinary.

He added: “I have been on IT and art and craft courses which have been fantastic.”

Having learned willow weaving and knotting, John’s aim is to start making items to sell in aid of the charity. He has already made quite a few dragonfly Christmas tree ornaments for the cause.

“I must say, emphatically, without hesitation, that these are things I have been able to do because of Blind Veterans UK,” he added.

Blind Veterans UK launched its No One Alone campaign in October 2012 and it is particularly keen to reach ex-service men, now in their 70s and 80s, who have sight problems.

“No One Alone seems like a very good name for the campaign – sight loss is a very isolating experience,” John said.

“Given what they have done for me, I am happy to do whatever I possibly can to help support and promote the work of Blind Veterans UK.

“My wife, Daphne, is also over the moon about the charity’s marvellous support. They have been very good to her.”

For more information go to www.noonealone.org.uk or call 0800 389 7979.