THE sun comes out, the shades go on. The sun goes in, the shades come off.

But what if there was an excuse to wear them for the whole day, regardless, and raise money for a good cause?

Shades for a Day - looking cool for Guide Dogs, is the Guide Dogs for the Blind's latest venture. It wants volunteers to don their shades on Wednesday, July 18, in support of the event.

The idea is to draw attention to the importance of the eye area, while raising money for the charity. The association also wants to stress how essential it is to buy glasses carrying the CE mark, meaning they are safe as well as stylish. Call 0118 983 8228 for a sponsorship pack.