An 80-year-old charity that provides radio sets to the blind is appealing for business support for special rooms in its new headquarters.

After 19 years in Chatham, the British Wireless for the Blind Fund is moving its base to Maidstone.

The new HQ will have sound and demonstration rooms, with a museum about the fund’s history.

Chief executive Margaret Grainger says she would welcome business support for these special projects.

She said: "We are looking for corporate sponsors to provide the equipment or help us buy the equipment."

Since its foundation in 1928, the fund has supplied specially adapted radios and other audio equipment to registered blind and partially sighted people throughout the UK.

About 35,000 sets are out with users at any time and have proved a lifeline to people who find it difficult or impossible to read or watch television.

The fund is supported by broadcasting personalities such as Richard Baker, Bob Harris, Sue Cook and Ed Stewart.

Mrs Grainger says the fund is expanding so fast, with many more demands on its services, that it needs bigger premises to accomodate a workforce that is likely to go up to 18 in the next few months.

More people are suffering visual impairment and it is estimated that anyone reaching the age of 70 has a one in four chance of being registered as blind or partially sighted.

The fund had been looking for premises in the Medway Towns but could find nothing suitable.

Mrs Grainger said: "I was a bit apprehensive about moving to Maidstone because most of the employees live in the Medway Towns. But once I saw the new offices, I thought they were just right."

Rooms in the new offices will be rented out as meeting rooms. There will also be space for guide dogs accompanying blind people visiting the new premises.

The fund works closely with radio manufacturers, especially Roberts, and keeps up with the latest technology such as MP3 and SD cards.

A new Roberts Concerto radio with special dials and screen will be unveiled at the official opening of the new offices on May 30.

"The new building is definitely going to be a showcase," Mrs Grainger said. "I think we’ll be able to offer a much better service. It’s a really exciting time for us."