BLIND runners took part in a charity run to raise awareness of the disability.

The Blind and Sight Impaired Society (Basis) invited 11 blind runners to take part in the Billericay park run in Lake Meadows, near to Radford Crescent.

The visually impaired runners were guided by volunteers and ran the five kilometre course to raise awareness of the charity and its partner, V.I. sighted guides, which was started by Gary Perryman.

Michelle Thomson, general manager of the charity’s south Essex branch, took part in the race blindfolded, to experience for herself what the runners feel.

She said: “It made me feel very vulnerable and realise the things we take for granted every day by having full sight.

“I was scared to lift my feet off the ground.”

Following the run, volunteers from the charity spoke with members of the public about the work they do.

Michelle said: “It was a huge success and we even saw four new people sign up to be volunteers for Basis.”

If you would like to become involved as a volunteer for Basis, or to find out more information, call Michelle on 01268 522817.