Robot unveils new name for charity

BOMB disposal specialists put one of their well-known robots to an unusual use yesterday, when the machine unveiled the new name for a South Yorkshire-based veterans’ rehabiitation centre.

St Dunstan’s was formed in 1915 to provide help to servicemen who had lost their sight in the First World War, and has helped veterans of every conflict since.

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But it was recently decided the charity needed to change its name to make its purpose more clear - leading to yesterday’s announcement that it would now be called Blind Veterans UK.

The charity was originally founded by the then owner of the Daily Express Lord Pearson, and helps those who have lost their sight in conflicts as well as former servicemen and women struggling with blindness in later life.

Charity staff and those who have benefited from its help were present at yesterday’s event, at Blind Veterans UK’s rehabiliation and training centre in Fulwood Road, Sheffield.

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The robot which carried out yesterday’s unveiling is known as the Wheelbarrow, and was operated by a member of the 521 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron, which is based at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire.