A CHARITY which helps give blind people a "reason to live" is appealing for donations.

The work of the Social Activities for the Visually Impaired (SAVI) group was highlighted following the death of Christopher England, who regarded the charity as a lifeline after he lost his sight more than 20 years ago in an horrific road accident.

The group has been running independently for 18 months, and arranges social activities every Saturday for about 25 regular members, all of whom are blind or visually impaired.

It was previously part of the Bolton Society for Blind People, but had to separate as there was no longer enough funding to support its work.

SAVI recently received a lottery grant of £10,000 which will enable it to keep running until next May, but donations and support are being invited.

Pauline Smith, a committee member who volunteers for the charity, said: "The people who come to the group are isolated and can't go out on their own because of their condition.

"Some people are also very withdrawn and depressed. We had a member recently join who didn't want to live, but he has said the group has given him a reason to live, that's what the group does."

Activities which the group organise include trips out bowling, music nights, as well as games such as bingo, dominoes and quizzes.

Volunteers also cook fresh meals for members of the group at its base in the Thicketford Centre, because they can often go without fresh meals during the week.

Mr England was part of the group for about seven years, and as well as benefiting from the sessions, he was a committee member who assisted with the running of the charity.

Mrs Smith said: "It was so sad hearing about Chris. He was such a nice lad, and you don't expect anyone to not come home from work, especially after what happened to him."

Aged 10, Christopher was out playing with friends in Westhoughton when a friend driving a tractor accidentally reversed over his head.

The charity was given £1,150 by Mr England's family, after asking for donations to go towards it following his death aged 31.

Mrs Smith said: "This money will be vital in helping the charity continue, and we are very grateful.

"There are more well known charities in Bolton but we are always looking for support, so if anyone can help that would be appreciated."

A fundraising night will be held at Farnworth Cricket Club on Saturday, July 9, featuring a singer performing the songs of Lady Gaga and Paloma Faith, costing £10 on the door. It starts at 7.30pm.

For more information, call Mrs Smith on 07968 815 509.