PERSONAL alarms have been handed out to visually impaired people to safeguard them against attacks.

The scheme was launched by charity Essex Sight after two incidents in Clacton where vulnerable blind residents reported being pushed and threatened.

Essex Sight decided to act to help visually impaired people in the area feel safer when they leave their homes.

Libby Turner from Essex Sight said: “Visually impaired people should not have to fear attacks whenever they leave their homes."

She started contacting other charities in the area and Clacton Lions Club stepped forward to help fund 100 alarms.

The club provided more than £430 for the devices, which will distributed through Essex Sight centres all over the county.