A TEIGNMOUTH optician will be attempting a world record for the longest time carrying out back-to-back eye tests.

The marathon at Specsavers in Bank Street is in support of the store's overseas charity, Vision Aid Overseas, on World Sight Day.

The bid will start on Thursday with the mayor, Cllr David Cox, receiving the first examination.

The tests, which take about 20 minutes, will continue throughout the day and night, finishing 331/2 hours later.

Enough people have been booked in to take part, and the opticians will work in teams, with plenty of regular breaks.

Simon Simmons, an optometrist and store director, said: 'We are very excited to be hosting this event. It is a world first on world Sight Day, and a fabulous opportunity for us to raise money for this fantastic charity, and involve the community at the same time.

'We will still maintain the highest clinical standards, and the tests will be full and comprehensive.'

To increase donations at the Teignmouth branch, there will also be a treadmill set up in store, loaned by Broadmeadow Sports Centre, and staff and residents will be encouraged to take part in a 56-mile relay trek, the average distance a Zambian has to travel to receive eye care.

Mr Simmons added that there were still slots available for the tests, which can be booked at the store. All those taking part will receive a certificate marking the attempt.

l Since 2003 more than a quarter-of-a-million glasses have been collected and recycled by Specsavers stores all over the UK for the charity, which re-dispenses them in developing countries. More than £250,000 has also been raised to improve eyecare in Zambia.