An Irvine resident has been shortlisted for a national teacher of the year award.

Alan Bell has been shortlisted for for Teacher of the Year at the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) Vision Pioneer Awards.

This is after developing a confidence-building and personal safety skills course for blind and partially sighted people at the Scottish Centre for Personal Safety.

Alan continues teaching personal safety skills to 30 blind and partially sighted people each week, voluntarily and free of charge.

Alan Bell, Volunteer Manager at the Scottish Centre for Personal Safety, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be nominated for this award.

“It’s a brilliant feeling to know that the sight loss and eye health sector values my commitment to supporting blind and partially sighted people.

“I’m looking forward to going to London to meet others who are passionate about improving the lives and support available for people affected by sight loss.”

The Vision Pioneer awards celebrate good practice within the sight loss and eye health sector, and honours the achievements of professionals committed to supporting blind and partially sighted people.