CHILDREN from a York school are appealing for donations of spectacles to send to Third World countries.

The youngsters from St Lawrence's School are collected glasses for Vision Aid Overseas as part of a science project.

As part of the topic, the Year One and Two pupils visited the York branch of Vision Express to learn about fitting glasses, testing eyes, making appointments and buying glasses.

They have also set up their own opticians in the classroom, called Smith's Spectacles.

Teacher Helen Smith said: "Our science topic is ourselves, and as part of this we went to Vision Express, on Parliament Street, for a very detailed educational visit and guided tour.

"The children had a wonderful visit and I would like to thank all the staff for such a super trip."

The collection box for glasses is in the reception area of the school.

Updated: 11:32 Wednesday, October 16, 2002