A Wyesham man was saved from a potentially life-threatening stroke by a trip to the opticians.

Nigel Bean went to Monnow Eyecare in Monmouth for a check up after telling his doctor his had "cobwebby vision".

Optometrist Helen Tilley immediately spotted a problem and was able, under the triage scheme, to get him fast-tracked into a clinic at the hospital.

A few days later, Nigel had an operation that averted the potential problems of strokes and blindness.

A relieved Mr Bean said: "I am very grateful to Helen, whose prompt action probably saved my life.

"Just two weeks before seeing Helen, I was discharged from the hospital eye department as my condition was not serious."

Helen said: "It is very important to have regular eye examinations with a qualified optometrist as they can reveal potential illnesses such as strokes, diabetes and blindness.

"We are fortunate in Wales to have the PEARS system (Primary Eye Acute Referral Service), through which you can have a free test if your GP refers you or you can self-refer to us with an emergency eye problem."