Almost 600 members of the visually impaired community gathered in the capital for Moorfields Eye Charity’s flagship walking fundraiser, Eye to Eye, with more than £91,000 collected so far to advance research into eye conditions and improve patient services.

The yearly gathering, marking its 12th edition, brought together those with visual impairments, their relatives, companions and staff from Moorfields Eye Hospital, who set off from the Richard Desmond Children’s Eye Centre on Peerless Street.

Participants could select from three routes: a one-mile circuit through the historic streets close to Moorfields, a five-mile trek, or a half-marathon course that passes the new Moorfields and UCL Centre for Eye Health, scheduled to open in 2027.

Among those taking part was 21-year-old Max Levey, who has attended Moorfields since he was a baby and was found to have congenital bilateral ptosis at three months old.

Surgery at seven months old enabled Mr Levey to see clearly for the first time, and his family credit the operation with transforming his prospects.

Mr Levey, who is about to begin the final year of his business management degree, has been involved with Eye to Eye since 2020 and his group has accumulated £22,000 for the charity over that period.

Mr Levey expressed gratitude for the opportunities Moorfields has afforded him, stating that participating in Eye to Eye represents the minimum he can do to show his appreciation.

His mother Caroline commented that Moorfields preserved her son’s vision, noting that without the sight-restoring procedure, they could never have foreseen the extent of Max’s accomplishments throughout his schooling, university years and work placement.

Attendees and their companions were treated to an event village hosting local groups that assist those with sight loss, such as Hair and Care, Martial Attitude, Kreative Craft Club and Bloomsbury Football, which produces specially designed footballs for players with visual impairments.

Complimentary beverages, live performances by Archway Big Band, children’s entertainment, a prize draw and food vendors contributed to a celebratory atmosphere.

Jo Green, director of fundraising and engagement at Moorfields Eye Charity, remarked that Eye to Eye provides one of the finest occasions to connect with and celebrate the charity’s tremendous supporters, with some having participated since the event’s inception in 2015.

She conveyed the charity’s profound appreciation for the outstanding backing received from all involved.

Contributions remain welcome through the Moorfields Eye Charity website.