A BLIND veteran who has lived alone since his wife died 10 years ago is looking forward to a special Christmas Day.

Harry Studholme, from Burnley, will be spending time with other vision-impaired ex-service men and women at Blind Veterans UK’s centre in Llandudno tomorrow.

Every year the charity invites beneficiaries, who would otherwise be alone at Christmas, to spend the week at one of its training and rehabilitation centres.

The thankful 87-year-old, who spent around 40 years of his life in Burnley said: "I won’t be alone this year as Blind Veterans UK have opened their doors to welcome me."

For the last 10 years the former paper mill worker has lived in a one bedroom, warden assisted flat and relies greatly on his guide dog, Watson, after his wife died and the couple had no children.

Her death came years after the former paper mill worker was forced to retire from work at the age of 52 due to sight loss, which was caused by a retinal haemorrhage.

The veteran grew up in Lancashire and initially worked in a paper mill before joining the Royal Signals in 1948. He served in many places in the military, including tours of Egypt in the Canal Zone before being discharged in 1953 as a Corporal.

Prior to losing his sight, Harry was an avid golfer but now finds the same pleasure while listening to his audio books and music on his much loved CD player. The pensioner is also able to shop for himself locally and even takes a walk around the market occasionally.

With the support of Blind Veterans UK, Harry has been given an Optrex scanner and some magnification aids to help him with his daily tasks like reading his post.

Harry said: “Christmas is all about being able to spend time with loved ones and to share those special memories with.

"Blind Veterans UK have been there for me when I needed them and even at this time of the year, they have made sure I am not alone.”

Since 1915 the charity has provided rehabilitation, training, practical advice and emotional support to tens of thousands of blind veterans. It currently supports more blind veterans than ever before in Blind Veterans UK's history.

Visit blindveterans.org.uk to learn how you can support its vital work.