​Backing by major retailer helps Glasgow doctors' crucial work in Zambia

Glasgow doctors are bringing the gift of sight to Zambia by donating used glasses to people who have little access to healthcare.

On Call Africa, a charity based in Glasgow, is running mobile surgeries in Southern Zambia after high street optician Optical Express teamed up with the organisation.

Kirsty Luescher, co-founder of On Call Africa, works in palliative medicine and is currently in the African country.

She said: "Our patients live in very rural areas and it is impossible for them to get glasses.

"They come to the clinic and they don't know what is wrong with their eyes.

"Women tell us they can't see to sew anymore and are distressed because they won't be able to support their families.

"We get them to try on glasses until they achieve correction. One of the most satisfactory things we do as a charity is helping our patients to regain their sight.”

The charity comprises three doctors - Kirsty Luescher, Simon Tolmie and Gavin McColl – and Malcolm Spence, an international development professional.

Trustees oversee the charity’s work from their base in Glasgow with the help of a large and growing network of supporters across the UK and a team of dedicated volunteers in Zambia.

David Moulsdale, chief executive at Optical Express, said: "Optical Express welcomes the opportunity to assist On Call Africa and help its patients in Southern Zambia reclaim their sight.

"In rural areas with little infrastructure having good eyesight is the difference between having a livelihood and being unable to work and provide for your family.

"Having good eyesight can literally change a life."