When fire devastated Weybridge Hospital in July a vital service for the visually impaired stopped for the first time in more than 40 years.

But now the Elmbridge and Runnymede Talking Newspaper is back.

Thanks to offers of help from around the area and hard work from the committee, the talking newspaper – which produces a weekly digest and monthly magazine – will be back in action from a new studio down the road in Chertsey.

The fire on July 11 destroyed much of the hospital, including the talking newspaper's equipment, as hundreds of nearby residents were evacuated. It was the first time the service stopped since 1975.

Committee member Anne Prevost said: “We have been fortunate in receiving generous terms from Runnymede Borough Council for a room in Chertsey and our insurance will cover the cost of the new recording equipment. However, our shopping list for basic office equipment will be several hundred pounds, and we are very grateful to Toshiba Company Fund, who have sent a donation towards this.

“Unfortunately several volunteers have had to resign – some because of the distance they would now have to travel, but sadly others will be leaving us for health reasons.”

If you would like to help us or know of someone who has difficulty reading and would like to receive recordings of the local news, please contact our helpline on 01784 435622.