Rebecca Harris MP took part in a blindfold walk aroundHadleigh High Streetto highlight the challenges that blind and partially sighted people face when getting out and about in their local areas.

The blindfold walk, organised by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), coincides with recent research by RNIB which reveals the growing problem of street obstacles; bollards, advertising boards, bins, and cars parked on pavements, which are preventing many people with sight loss from getting out and about.

Survey results published in RNIB's 'Who put that there' report revealed that a third of blind and partially sighted people across theUKhad injured themselves when walking around their local areas. Overall, 95% of people said that they had collided with an obstacle.

Speaking after the event Rebecca commented:

“It’s amazing how many obstacles blind and partially sighted people face in Castle Point. Even the short walk along Hadleigh High Street throws up all sorts of obstacles. I think it’s important that we all take greater care of where we leave potential obstacles, such as street furniture and cars.”

Emily Papaleo, RNIB Regional Campaigns Officer said: "Blind and partially sighted people face many challenges on a daily basis and one of the biggest is getting out and about safely and independently.

"People with sight loss should be able to walk to the shops, see friends or visit the doctor’s in the same way as everyone else."