CHILDREN'S sight problems should be diagnosed much more effectively thanks to a new high-tech digital camera at York District Hospital.

The retinal camera for the eye department has been paid for with an £11,000 donation by York's three Lions' clubs - York, Minster and Derwent - and will help in the battle against blindness.

The Lions' clubs launched their Evening Press-backed campaign to buy the portable camera in March 2000, as part of a national programme by all Lions clubs to raise the profile of the dangers of glaucoma and diabetic eye disease.

The camera, which is due to arrive at the hospital in the next few weeks, will improve the diagnosis of eye problems and be particularly useful for examining small children.

Robert Taylor, lead clinician in the eye department which sees more than 26,000 patients a year, said: "The camera will help in our eye diagnosis for children and babies who we often cannot get close enough to.

"This camera will give us a permanent close-up picture of the eyes. It will grab an image which we can study, and use both for teaching and diagnosis."

Terry Briggs, chairman of the eye camera appeal committee, said: "We are obviously thrilled to be able to give the department this money to buy such a necessary piece of equipment. We feel sure it can save people's sight.

"The appeal has taken a lot of hard work by Lions' members, but we have had a lot of wonderful support from the community.

"It is the first time the three clubs have joined forces and we are delighted that the people of York will now benefit from this fantastic piece of equipment."

Updated: 11:21 Monday, September 10, 2001