A RUNCORN optician who has helped to save the sight of Africans and raised thousands of pounds for local charities has been promoted.

Chris Graham, store manager at Specsavers in Runcorn Shopping Centre has been appointed as store director.

He started his fledgling career in the optics industry as a 15-year-old schoolboy on work experience.

Now aged 30, he has been recognised as one of the optical chain’s success stories.

Last year Chris gave up 800 hours of his own time to volunteer locally and helped to raise more than £5,000 for Halton Haven Hospice, Vision Aid Overseas and Guide Dogs for the Blind.

He has worked as volunteer in Zambia and Uganda to help restore the sight of people living in remote villages.

In April, he was presented with a commendation from Specsavers founder Dame Mary Perkins in recognition of his efforts and going the extra mile to contribute to the local community.

This latest reward is testament not only to Chris’ sterling work, but also his unerring dedication to his team.

Chris, who joined Specsavers at the age of 22, had passed the company’s selection process to become a director in 2008, but turned down a number of different opportunities elsewhere as he was keen to stay loyal to staff at Runcorn.

Chris from Higher Runcorn said: ‘I’m very proud to accept this position. I have been honoured to see this team develop over the years and the store go from strength to strength.

“As a team we’ve very much enjoyed taking part in so many activities with the local community and charities of Runcorn and look forward to that continuing.”