Lord Sebastian Coe, the Olympic champion behind the Games last summer, has been made president of an eyecare charity based in Epsom.

Former Prime Minister John Major has also agreed to become vice-president of the SeeAbility after six years as patron of their Sight Pioneers initiative. .

Lord Coe said: “I am delighted to support SeeAbility’s work for people living with sight loss and multiple disabilities.

“My parents both lost their sight in later years so I am acutely aware of the impact this has on someone’s life.”

Lord Coe has endorsed the charity’s work since 2000 and he used to encourage participants of the London Marathon running for SeeAbility.

James Deeley, chairman of SeeAbility, said: “It’s a huge honour and we are immensely proud that Lord Coe and Sir John have taken on these roles.”