A FREE weekly audio service for the blind and partially-sighted has reached its 600th weekly edition.

Volunteers at The Bridgwater Talking Newspaper (BTN) read and record news, stories and features from the Bridgwater Mercury and the Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News to help people who are visually impaired access news.

Since the lockdown in March the charity has been unable to hold normal recording sessions but are recording remotely on phones which are emailed to be compiled into the weekly edition.

Volunteers have tried to lighten the mood with the addition of short stories as well as the usual poetry and silly stories.

Richard Culverhouse, chairman of the charity, said: “We are delighted to reach another milestone in providing this service for our 70 listeners especially during this difficult year.

"We have only been able to do this thanks to the continuing loyal support of our volunteers.”

Richard has been involved with service since the beginning, now over 10 years ago.

“We are keen to make sure we reach as many as possible of the Blind and Partially Sighted in the area and new subscribers are welcome to join by phoning me on 01278-684390 or by registering online on our website at bridgwatertalkingnews.org.uk,” Richard said.

“Most listeners receive the recordings on a USB stick by post to listen and if needed we provide a player to listen to it, free of charge.

"However, there are other ways to enjoy what we do.

"It is available on our website, smart speaker using the Alexa Voice activated system, a local telephone call to 01278 247347 and the Talking Newspaper App developed by the British Wireless for the Blind Fund. Burnham Radio also broadcasts recordings on Sunday afternoons.”

“We are always pleased to hear from anyone who would like to help in producing the BTN. To find out more, please get in touch.

"We are delighted that this simple service continues to be appreciated and proves beneficial to our listeners and we look forward to the next 600 editions.

"The continuing all-round support that makes this possible is appreciated especially that of the Bridgwater Mercury and the Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News in enabling us to reproduce the articles”

The service is provided free to the users but the charity said they would welcome anyone who wishes to make a donation to help with running costs.

Visit www. bridgwatertalkingnews.org.uk to make a donation.