The Duchess of Edinburgh marks World Sight Day 2025

The Duchess of Edinburgh is passionate about eliminating avoidable blindness.

At a reception in London, Her Royal Highness met eye care professionals, vision and eye health researchers, and a group of patients and their families.

During the event, The Duchess was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by The College of Optometrists. This was presented to Her Royal Highness by Dr Gillian Ruddock MCOptom in recognition of her work championing eye health projects in the United Kingdom and countries around the world.

The special ceremony took place at Apothecaries’ Hall in the City of London, a historic building which is also home to The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, one of the College’s predecessor bodies in its long heritage as the professional body for optometry. 

Later, as Global Ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), The Duchess presented England Lioness and Chelsea Football Club Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton with a special award. 

The IAPB ‘Love Your Eyes Special Recognition Award’ acknowledges Hannah’s efforts to raise awareness and inspire others with her eye health story.

Born with strabismus, a serious vision condition that left her with almost no depth perception, Hannah underwent multiple surgeries before the age of three to improve her sight. Although some eye health specialists advised her to avoid sport, her determination ensured she could pursue her passion for football.