Wanderers vision - to help child sight charity

BOLTON Wanderers have teamed up with Bolton-based national charity Vision Aid for the new season.

The partnership was launched at the Reebok Stadium with the announcement of the "Whites for Sight" campaign.

Wanderers will be supporting Vision Aid throughout the new season and holding a series of fund raising events, while helping to raise the profile of the charity and the "Whites for Sight" project.

The centrepiece of the fund raising efforts will see the creation of what could be Europe's biggest balloon race.

Called the "Great Whites for Sight Balloon Race", all Wanderers fans and supporters of Vision Aid will be able to buy balloons for £1 each.

Every balloon will then be entered into the race which is scheduled to take place at the Wanderers' final home game of the season -- currently planned for Sunday, May 6 -- when all the balloons will be released in front of a packed Reebok crowd for the fixture against Sheffield United.

Gareth Moores, Wanderers commercial director, believes the partnership will bring a welcome boost to Vision Aid's fundraising activity.

He said: "The club is delighted to be able to pledge its support to Vision Aid over the coming season. Along with everyone else at Bolton Wanderers, I believe that we can make a significant contribution to many children's lives through this partnership."

Vision Aid was started by parents for parents, and offers friendship and practical support to families who may be feeling confused or isolated caring for a child who is visually impaired.

Lesley Green, director general of Vision Aid, says the charity is delighted to be associated with the Club.

"The support of Bolton Wanderers has already made a significant difference to Vision Aid. Thanks to the club's firm commitment, we will be able to go ahead with our plans to purchase the building which will house our new family centre."