Vision Norfolk Great Yarmouth audio book club needs members

Run by Vision Norfolk, the monthly book club takes place in the town's library, with members meeting to discuss the chosen book of the month. 

Alison Bates, who runs the group, said that reading is always one of the things that people miss when they start losing their sight, along with social interaction. 

"The audio book club provides both of these things - companionship as well as lively conversation about the book we have all been listening to," Ms Bates added.

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Bradwell man Shaun McGarry enjoys attending Vision Norfolk's monthly audio book club at Great Yarmouth library. (Image: Vision Norfolk)

Club member Shaun McGarry, from Bradwell, has been coming to the group for 20 years. He was sighted as a young person but started to lose his vision at the age of 25 and is now registered blind.

“I had always enjoyed reading, so when I could no longer see well enough to read actual books, I moved on to audio books,” he said.

“Audio books offer a very different experience to reading a printed book. The reader puts emotion into the performance and almost becomes part of the book. Sometimes you find yourself grinning like a Cheshire cat or shedding a tear as you listen.

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“I love coming to the book club. Not only do I get to discuss with others who share my love of books, but there is an important social side as well. It is easy to get isolated when your sight goes, and the club is full of friendly people.”

The club meets on the last Friday of every month from 1.30pm to 3pm in the town’s library. 

Attendance and the loan of the audio books is free for members. 

Anyone interested in taking part – no matter the extent of their sight loss – can contact Vision Norfolk’s Great Yarmouth hub on 01493 745973 or by emailing greatyarmouthhub@visionnorfolk.org.uk.