IN PICTURES: Beacon Centre for the Blind celebrates 140 years

The Sedgley-based sight loss charity held a free family fun day birthday bash at Himley Hall, Dudley.

The fun day involved a wide range of activities including face painting and a funfair, as well as a variety of entertainment.

Kelly Vickers, Beacon fundraising and events officer, said: "Our main aim for the day was to raise awareness of the charity and our work across the West Midlands.

"Judging by the hundreds that attended, we definitely did that."

She added: "The entertainment went down really well, especially the Paws for Thought dog display team and the Animal Man, who bought lots of creatures for people to hold."

The Beacon Bus, which travels across the Black Country bringing awareness to sight loss and promoting the charity, was also popular.

Kelly added: "We have had several calls and emails since the fun day asking for the bus to attend other events.

"The bus is a great way of spreading the word about the services and help that we can provide."

Beacon was founded in 1875 and has been working with the Black Country community providing vital support to people who suffer with sight loss.

The charity's chief executive Arwyn Jones said: "Our organisation has been supporting the blind and visually impaired since 1875.

"During that time, the charity has evolved and developed, providing education and employment opportunities, social integration and practical assistance of many forms.

"Today our focus continues to be on helping people with sight loss to live fuller and more independent lives within their local community."