Dave Myers, one half of the Hairy Bikers, discovered he had glaucoma during a routine eye check-up.

The 66-year-old star, when discussing his ordeal, stressed the importance of regular optical examinations as his condition could have led to blindness if left undetected.

The celebrity found himself shocked by the early diagnosis during an optical examination at his local high-street opticians.

Undergoing additional scans scrutinising the back of his eye, the TV cook was told that he was showing signs of early-onset glaucoma by his optometrist.

Barrow-born Dave was 'relieved' that the condition had been spotted so early as being referred to his GP for treatment meant the disease did not continue to progress further.

Speaking to the Express, Dave said: "I was so relieved and thankful that it had been detected because it meant I could continue my career, doing what I love most, being able to work alongside my best friend, but, more importantly, being able to see my children's faces,

"If I hadn't gone for my regular check-up, I could be completely blind which is a scary thought.

"As many as half of all people with glaucoma are undiagnosed."

Dave was prescribed eye drops after being referred to his GP.

The consistent use of the eye drops and regular visits to Specsavers has helped him to retain his 20:20 vision.

The drops assist in maintaining eye pressure levels and protect against sight loss.

Dave has joined forces with Specsavers, industry specialists, and Labour MP Marsha De Cordova to advocate for policy change and the execution of a National Eye Health Strategy across England.

Emphasising the value of the strategy, the celebrity said: "Along with Specsavers and MP, Marsha De Cordova, I believe we need a National Eye Health Strategy as it would help alleviate some of this pressure on the NHS.

"By making more efficient use of high street opticians people would spend less time waiting for care."

He further highlighted the benefits this policy could bring to disadvantaged demographics such as the homeless who face difficulties accessing NHS eye tests.

For more information regarding the Access to Care Report from Specsavers, visit the website at: www.specsavers.co.uk/reports/access-to-care-2023.