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Harrogate optometrist to walk 105 miles for Vision Support charity

Monday, 23 March 2026 14:49

By Specsavers Harrogate (sponsored)

Specsavers Harrogate is supporting local charity Vision Support.

To show their support for a local independent charity, the team at Specsavers Harrogate is fundraising throughout 2026.

The locally owned and run store on Beulah Street has been a proud partner of Vision Support for four years. 

When they heard about the team’s plans to raise funds in celebration of their 105 years of service, they were excited to get involved and support this special milestone.

Vision Support Harrogate District has spent more than a century supporting communities across Harrogate, Ripon and the surrounding area, providing practical advice, social activities, befriending and emotional support to help people with sight loss live independently and stay connected.

Optometrist director, Caroline Sullivan, has pledged to walk 105 miles throughout the year – in line with Vision Support’s celebratory fundraiser. 

She’s already made changes to her daily routine and plans to rack up more miles as she walks her Basenji, Scooby.

Caroline’s team are supporting her all the way, with the store sponsoring her with a generous £500 to not only support her efforts but to highlight the amazing, life-changing work the team at Vision Support do for residents and customers.

In February, Vision Support hosted an afternoon tea to honour members, volunteers, and supporters, celebrating their history and future plans. On the day, they had a raffle to raise money, with Specsavers Harrogate donating a £200 voucher.

Tanya Stimpson, director of services at Vision Support Harrogate District, said: 

“On behalf of everyone at Vision Support, we sincerely thank the team at Specsavers Harrogate for their ongoing support, from sponsoring our ECLO service to providing essential advice and assistance to members as they embark on this challenging new chapter in their lives.

“We’re committed to helping anyone with sight loss by providing a welcoming environment where they can regain their independence. 

“Without the dedication of our volunteers and the support of local businesses like Specsavers Harrogate, reaching our 105th year would not have been possible. 

“We encourage the people of Harrogate to join the walking challenge, as we aim to continue supporting individuals with vision loss for many more years.”

Caroline added: 

“When I learnt that Vision Support was organising a year-round fundraiser to celebrate their remarkable 105 years of service and dedication to our community, I knew I had to get involved. 

“The store’s relationship with its members and volunteers is invaluable to us. 

“The team’s work is essential for individuals with visual impairments in Harrogate and nearby areas, and they help many of our customers access the resources they need to restore normalcy in their lives.

“It’s been a privilege to support them over the years, and all of us at the store look forward to continuing our relationship with Vision Support and to supporting the people around Harrogate with the essential eyecare support they deserve. 

“We hope to encourage residents to get involved with the challenge – I know Scooby and I are looking forward to it – and it’s a wonderful way to explore the beauty of the town.”

If you’d like to show your appreciation to Vision Support, donations are welcome via www.vshd.org.uk/making-a-donation/

For more information on Specsavers Harrogate or to book an appointment, call the store on 01423 564 515 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/harrogate

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