Spending time in the sun can feel great, and it does offer important health benefits. Sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which is vital for bone health, a strong immune system, and even boosting mood. Just a short time outdoors each day can be enough to keep vitamin D levels healthy. But while sunshine is good in moderation, too much exposure can be harmful, especially for your eyes. The sun gives off many different kinds of rays. Some, like infrared rays, we can feel as warmth. Others, like ultraviolet (UV) rays, we can't see or feel but they can still cause damage. There are two main types of UV rays that reach the Earth’s surface: UVB rays can cause sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin, contributing to skin ageing and cancer. Most sunscreens protect more against UVB than UVA. When it comes to eye health, UV rays can be especially harmful. Prolonged sun exposure increases your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other vision problems. Top Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun Wear sunglasses that block 99–100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer extra protection. Use a wide-brimmed hat to shade your eyes and face. Stay in the shade, especially between 10am and 4pm when the sun’s rays are strongest. Check the UV index daily; the higher the number, the greater the need for protection. Apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection on your face and around your eyes. Don’t forget SPF lip balm. Be extra cautious around reflective surfaces like water, snow, or sand, which increase UV exposure. (fb)

SSW has a team of visually impaired runners, guide runners and supporter runners taking part in June's Worthing 10k, one of the South's largest and fastest 10k events! Team SSW is raising money for vital services to support blind and partially sighted people. If you'd like to support us (and running is perhaps not your thing!), you can sponsor the team instead! We have a dedicated JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ssw10k Did you know that, on average, 250 people begin to lose their sight every day in the UK? SSW offers advice and support to blind and partially sighted people, and their families, in Worthing and beyond. Our services include: - Assistive technology advice and support - Benefits advice - Counselling and wellbeing support - Events & social activities, including hosting Sussex Spitfires Showdown Club We have opportunities to get involved in our charity work by volunteering, fundraising or collaborating on community projects. We’d love to hear from you. In the meantime, if you're able to spare a few pounds to sponsor our amazing team of runners, we'd be very grateful: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ssw10k (fb)