SORE eyes are not normally associated with aching arms . . . but patients with sight problems know better.

The arm ache comes as a result of spending long periods at a time pressing hot packs against their eyes.

But now thanks to a Farnworth man eye patients at Royal Bolton Hospital's unit will no longer complain of arm ache as they prepare for treatment.

Norman Cartledge, of Highfield Road, Farnworth, had a brain wave. As more and more patients complained that their arm hurt the local man decided to design a special holder.

Now patients can use a specially-designed warm pillow case which fits around their head. The invention helps the pupils to dilate before examination.

Carole Corr from the hospital's eye unit said: "With the help of our sewing room ladies we have 'developed' a holder for the pack to fit into. It seems to do the trick."

As a result of his idea Mr Carledge received a £50 award in the Warburtons' annual patient suggestion contest. EYE OPENER: Norman Cartledge is pictured receiving his cheque from Gill Kippax of Warburtons SIGHT FOR SORE EYES: Norman Cartledge's idea is put into practise