An inspirational Greenock pensioner who is blind and deaf has thanked a charity for giving her a lifeline

Margaret Hamill was thrilled to receive a specially adapted radio from the British Wireless for the Blind Fund.

The 98-year-old, who lives in the John Galt House sheltered housing complex, believes the scheme is a 'great idea'. She said: "I was very pleased to be given the radio.

"I enjoy listening to the talking newspaper where they read out the Tele - it keeps me up-to-date with the local news."

Margaret, who has a son, Peter, says that being registered blind and deaf can be challenging but she receives excellent support from the staff at John Galt House.

She said: "I'm fine in here as I know every step of the place, so I can find my way around.

"Everybody is so kind in here, especially Fiona and Mary, they are excellent."

British Wireless for the Blind Fund (BWBF) provides a range of equipment all designed with blind and partially sighted people in mind.

The equipment is given free of charge to those who meet a set criteria.

Sophie Wheldon, regional development manager at the charity, hopes more people will follow in Margaret's footsteps and sign up for a free radio.

She said: “Our recipients tell us that their radio is invaluable to them, allowing them to access a huge variety of audio all at the touch of a button.

"All equipment is delivered to the home by a volunteer who sets it all up and provides support in using it and we offer ongoing support.”

Anyone who is interested in receiving a radio should contact Sophie Wheldon by emailing sophie@blind.org.uk or phoning 01283 790 208 .