SCHOOLS, work places and organisations can help raise money for the Yeovil Express' Paws for a Pound Appeal by getting involved in this year's Guide Dogs for the Blind Association's Shades for a Day campaign.

The campaign - now in its fourth year - is all part of the association's aim to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your eyes from UV rays.

It is particularly important that young people are aware of the dangers, as the most damage is done below the age of 18.

The results of independent research which shows that a third of parents never ensure that their children protect their eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses. And whilst 86 per cent of parents believed it is important to wear sunglasses, only 20 per cent of parents ensure their children do so.

Tuesday, July 13, has been identified by the association as its Shades for a Day 2004 where people can look cool for guide dogs.

Having fun, looking cool, and raising money for Guide Dogs is only part of what makes Shades for a Day such a successful event.

The day also conveys a desperately important message - look after your eyes! As part of the healthy eyes campaign - Shades for a Day helps Guide Dogs to educate people of all ages about the importance of sight and how you can protect this precious gift. Important advice ranges from buying the correct type of sunglasses to the importance of taking a regular eye tests.

Yeovil Express chief reporter Steve Sowden said that Shades for a Day was a great way to raise money for the association - and could be a great way for people to 'do their bit' for our very own Paws for a Pound Appeal.

Steve said: "We want everyone throughout the Yeovil area in schools, companies, clubs and individually to wear their sunglasses, look cool and donate £1 to Guide Dogs and help publicise the importance of basic eye care.

"In schools we can help you raise money for your own good causes - of every £1 donated, 50p goes to Guide Dogs and 50p to your school.

"At work or in clubs why not encourage people to join in by organising beach parties or having the coolest dude in the office fashion show."

Whatever you are doing on the day you can 'look cool for Guide Dogs' and we have lots of ways we can help you make it a success - and the Yeovil Express will be more than happy to give you some publicity.

If you would like to take part in the Shades for a Day campaign on July 13 then let us know by either writing to the Yeovil Express, 46 Princes Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1EQ or phoning 01935-479811. Alternatively you can email stephen.sowden@countygazette.co.uk