A VISUALLY impaired motor enthusiast who lost his driving licence because of he lost his sight will soon be back on the road — when he replaces four wheels with two.

Carl Morris has taken up tandem cycling after enrolling in Action for Blind People’s (Action) Living with Sight Loss programme.

The 36-year-old, who used to be a keen cyclist, is now set to join Bury Tandem Club, a cycling group for the visually impaired.

His vision first started deteriorating when he was aged just 30.

Mr Morris was given the devastating news he had macular degeneration, a condition that affects a tiny part of the retina at the back of the eye, causing problems with central vision.

He had his driving licence revoked last year, which had a “devastating impact” on his day-to-day life.

Mr Morris, from Tonge Moor, said: “I have always loved motor vehicles and used to attend car rallies with my son, which we both really enjoyed.

“Then, one day, I began having problems seeing my computer screen. I was eventually diagnosed with macular degeneration. I was distraught, feeling lost and isolated.

“I felt useless — everything I loved in life was experienced through sight. Taking that away meant there was nothing left — or so I thought.”

In February, Mr Morris was referred to Action for Blind People’s Living with Sight Loss programme, which is based at the ophthalmology unit at Royal Bolton Hospital.

The community-based six-week programme gave him an opportunity to share his experiences with others who are blind or partially sighted.

Since completing the course, Mr Morris has gone on to become an ambassador for Action for Blind People’s (Action) Living with Sight Loss course.

Mr Morris said: “The course has helped me develop new and lasting friendships, boosted my confidence, social life and self-esteem.

“I’d recommend the course to anyone who is worried about visual impairment and what the future holds.”

To book a place on Action for Blind People’s Living with Sight Loss course, call 0161 787 9252 or email lwsl@actionforblindpeople.org.uk.