OPTICIANS have helped some of the world's neediest children get seen.

Specsavers in Bitterne, Shirley and Totton have donated 100 high-visibility vests to children living in slums and rubbish dumps in the Philippines.

It is hoped the vests will help keep hundreds of children safe while they are on school trips.

The stores donated the vests to the Purple Community Fund (PCF), a charity founded by Hampshire mum Jane Walker MBE in a bid to help eradicate child labour in Manila, where families struggle to survive by scavenging through the dumps for anything that can be recycled and sold.

The charity, based in Hedge End, provides education and health care for families living in the slums.

The vests were delivered to the PCF school in the Smokey Mountain dumpsite by Abby Elsey, daughter of community fundraiser at the charity, Sheila Elsey, during a three-month volunteering trip.

Store director at all three branches Leighton Simmons, said: ‘PCF is a charity close to one of member of staff’s heart as she has fundraised for them for years. When we offered them the vests they were delighted and expressed their gratitude. We look forward to hearing how the children get on’.

For more information call 01489 790219, email info@p-c-f.org or visit p-c-f.org.