AN EYE test at a Ross opticians helped save the life of five-year-old Harry Hoggins, say his parents.

Harry was immediately referred to Gloucester Royal Hospital when parents Steven and Sabina took him to Specsavers in the town’s Gloucester Road.

Further hospital tests revealed that Harry, of Longhope, had a brain tumour.

Surgeons at Bristol Children’s Hospital drained 120ml of excess fluid from his brain cavity and in a further eight-hour operation they were able to remove 10 per cent of the non-cancerous growth.

His parents, Steven and Sabina, have set up an online GoFundMe appeal to raise money to help their son.

Mr Hoggins said: “Specsavers were the ones who initially saved his life, just a general eye test at Specsavers.

“When we went to Specsavers and they sent us straight to the hospital. It was terrifying.

“Within five hours we’d gone from an eye test to him having a brain tumour.

Mrs Hoggins said the staff in Ross were ‘incredible’ and she has been to thank them.

She said their experience highlighted the need for parents to get their children’s eyes tested regularly.

Optometrist Hasnain Bandali, who examined Harry said: "First of all my heartfelt commiserations to the boy and his family on the life changing diagnosis.

“I wish him all the very best and a speedy recovery. Cases like this really highlight how important regular eye examinations are for everyone, young and old.

“It’s not just about whether or not you need to wear glasses. With the technology we have available, it is possible to detect early not only eye related conditions but also various health conditions, in this case a life threatening one.

“Early diagnosis increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Remember the saying, your eyes are a window to your health.”

Mrs Hoggins added: “How many parents have not had eye tests for their children?

“An eye test at an opticians is so important both the standard tests and the secondary eye drop tests with eye drops because they look into the back of the eye and can see your brain and nervous system and it can tell you so much.”

The couple say they have received ‘overwhelming love and support’ and have launched an appeal is to raise money for Harry’s comfort, support and medical needs ‘on the long journey ahead’.

The parents say the situation has taken a massive financial toll on the family which includes twins Harlow and Harley aged nine.

Harry has to go to hospital in Bristol up to three times a week and he is unable to attend school.

His vision is severely impaired, and he had to learn to walk again after the operation.

Mr Bandali concluded: “My advice to everyone is to never leave anything too late and ignore symptoms. If something doesn't feel right, it is better to get it checked out.

“We recommend having your eyes tested regularly, at least every two years unless recommended sooner by your optometrist or if you have concerns, in which case you should seek help earlier and book that appointment."

● To support the appeal, visit: gofundme.com and search for Harry Hoggins.