COMMUTERS experienced what it is like to be blind in one of the busiest train stations in the country.

Blind Veterans UK, which is based in Ovingdean, ran the event at Brighton Station and guided blindfolded volunteers around cones and other obstacles.

As well as raising awareness of what it is like to be blind, the event served to publicise Blind Veterans UK’s sponsored 100km walk.

The event, which takes place on June 6, will see those involved make their way from London to the Ovingdean base.

During the 24 hour challenge participants will make their way along the Thames and then through the Sussex countryside.

Almost 200 people have signed up so far, including ten blind veterans.

Mark Threadgold, 47, a blind veteran who attended the event and who served with the Royal Corps of Signals, said: “The thing I value the most is that Blind Veterans UK gave me my independence.

“The thing they call the three A’s – Acceptance, Adjustment, Achievement – they’re very closely intertwined, it’s not three simple steps.”

Since losing his sight, Mr Threadgold has set several world records, including navigating a rigid inflatable boat around the Isle of Wight in one hour and 50 minutes.

Simon Wheatcroft, 32, is an ultra-runner who was left blind at 18 after an eye disease and he is attempting to run the 100km in June.

He ran the New York Marathon after running 240 miles from Boston to New York in 2014. 

He said: “It took an incredible amount of concentration.

“You make your mistakes early on. You run into the posts and bushes quite early – and you remember where those things are.”

On taking part in Blind Veterans UK’s 100km challenge, he said: “It’s just great to be part of something that is a real celebration, and obviously I’m a big fan of any charity that is doing things with visually impaired people.”

For more information and to sign up in the 100km challenge, visit blindveterans.org.uk/100k.

Adam takes on the challenge

I WAS blindfolded and then instructed to memorise and navigate myself through the obstacle course consisting of several cones, while avoiding the traps of scattered bubble wrap.

With the memory fresh, it felt natural to begin with.

A few seconds later, however, I had absolutely no idea of where I was in relation to where I had started.

It felt totally bizarre.

After failing solo, a guide took me across and I was stunned to discover how much I relied on my guide – and how much I needed him to help me complete it.

Rather than guide me inch by inch, succinct and short commands such as “sharp left” and “clear ahead” were effective enough to help me complete the course safely.