Published: Monday, 13th October, 2008 12:00pm

A day of insight for the mayor

by Judith Green

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Worthwhile: Wokingham Town Mayor Brian Willis blind driving at TRL Crowthorne with Brian Lawrence from Roadcraft.

A TOWN mayor took up the challenge of a sponsored drive to raise funds for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Wokingham Town Mayor Brian Willis took part in the event held at the Transport Research Laboratory training centre in Crowthorne on Saturday.

Cllr Willis, who himself managed to raise £700 for the charity, said: "Driving while blindfolded was a very weird experience because I had no idea of where I was or what I was doing - you could only go on what the instructor told you.

"I believe I clipped the kerb on three occasions because I didn't steer hard enough and at one stage it felt like I was going backwards. It brought home, as a sighted person, how the visually impaired are unable to have the enjoyment of driving a car - just to be able to get in it and have the freedom top go wherever you want - and you realise what they are missing."

During the drive, sighted people were blindfolded to experience what it would be like to be visually impaired.

"It was a worthwhile experience for a very worthwhile cause and it is a wonderful way to raise money for the charity."

All funds raised from the event will go to the Guide Dogs For The Blind Association.