A Greenock opticians is supporting a campaign to produce a new invention to help visually impaired people

Reid MacKellar spotted the Kickstarter Crowdfunding campaign to produce Ramble Tag, an armband with a handle attached.

The family-run business from West Blackhall Street were so impressed that they have donated £500.

The idea was the brainchild of Tom Forsyth, who is blind, and his friend and neighbour Laura MacLean who goes dog-walking with him.

Tom, 64, said: "Laura was helping me to take the dog out and I used to hold on to her.

"But when the dog pulled, it pulled us apart.

"We thought there had to be an easier way than this."

Laura designed a prototype and it's been full steam ahead since then.

The pair are now fundraising until Tom's birthday on October 14 to raise the £3,500 needed to produce the Ramble Tags.

Tom, a former graphic artist, says it gives people leeway but at the same time they feel secure.

He said: "As long as the guide has their wits about them, you're laughing."

Julianna Mackellar, of Reid Mackellar, said: "It really is a truly inspirational story and one that struck a cord with us here.

"Coming to terms with sight loss is obviously a highly emotional process and one that we occasionally come across in our profession.

"It can take a long time to adjust to this major life event and Tom, a successful graphic artist before he lost his sight, has done just that.

"We love the product and believe that it will help people with sight loss to feel more independent and comfortable if they need assistance."

Campbell MacKellar, optometrist, added: "We are delighted to support the campaign and give Tom and Laura a bit of publicity in the Tele."

For more information on the campaign visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1311203345/guidance-aid-for-visually-impaired-people-the-ramb