THE importance of regular eye tests have been stressed by a pensioner who had an eye removed after his Christchurch optician had concerns during a routine check up.

Alan Napier had treatment for eye melanoma more than 20 years ago and it was deemed stable.

However, Richard Taylor, optometrist director at Raxworthy Opticians in Bargates, found a lump and bleed in his eye which turned out to be the growth of another melanoma.

Following further examinations at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, by the same consultant who he saw for the original melanoma, Mr Napier had to have the eye removed.

He now has a prosthesis fitted in the form of a glass eye and is coping well.

After his out of the blue diagnosis at Raxworthy, which prevented even more serious consequences, both Mr Napier and Mr Taylor are keen to highlight the value of having your eyes examined on a regular basis.

While he admitted the sight in his left eye had deteriorated since 1995 following an operation and become almost non-existent, Mr Napier said he had got used to the situation.

However, discussing Mr Taylor’s vital observation, he said: “On my annual eye test, my optometrist found some sort of flare up around the old scar. He referred me to the eye hospital.

“On my referral I felt rather taken aback and upset. My views on the importance of sight tests are very strong. They should be done by everyone on a regular basis.

“The experience of this has not changed my lifestyle, only made me more careful.”

Mr Taylor said: “I had been looking after Alan for the past four years and knew his history. I remember Alan’s eye as he had a radiation plaque at Moorfields years ago and his retina had a very distinct appearance. When I saw the haemorrhages and sub-retinal fluid I knew it wasn’t going to be good news.

“I had a discussion with Alan about his condition in the past and we both knew it may re-occur. “

He added: “Alan advised me that he was going to have the eye removed and thanked me for picking it up.”

Opticians advise having an eye test every two years as part of regular health checks even if there are not any problems.