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RNIB and National Talking Newspapers; Blind golfer; Sue Townsend

RNIB answers criticisms about its takeover of the National Talking Newspapers service. Plus a blind golf club captain and a fond farewell to author Sue Townsend.

The Royal National Institute of Blind People took over most of the operation of the National Talking Newspaper and Magazine service at the beginning of April. A number of listeners have contacted In Touch to report that they haven't been receiving their publications in audio format in the post on time, and the email service has been stopped, which, the organisation says, is a temporary measure. Peter White speaks to Neil Heslop, RNIB's solutions director, to put some of the criticisms to him.

John Eakin has played golf at Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club for the past 25 years. When his sight began to deteriorate, he thought he'd have to give up the game. John relearnt how to play as a visually impaired golfer, and now admits his swing is better now than when he was fully sighted. The club has appointed John club captain, an honorary post, making him the club's figurehead and representative.

Last week saw the passing of a national treasure, author of the Adrian Mole book series, Sue Townsend. Sue was a great friend of the programme, appearing a number of times to talk about her deteriorating sight and how she continued to write. We bid a fond farewell to Sue, and hear her at her best at the In Touch 50th Anniversary broadcast.

PICTURE - Presenter Peter White, with the late Sue Townsend.

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20 minutes

Last on

Tue 15 Apr 2014 20:40

The Blind Italian Open, Milan - John Eakin (on the right) with guide Michael Gutteridge.

The Blind Italian Open, Milan - John Eakin (on the right) with guide Michael Gutteridge.

John Eakin hitting ball in Italy (with guide out of shot).

John Eakin hitting ball in Italy (with guide out of shot).

Green Island Country Club, Georgia, USA, where John Eakin was playing for Rest of the World against North America.

Green Island Country Club, Georgia, USA, where John Eakin was playing for Rest of the World against North America.

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  • Tue 15 Apr 2014 20:40

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