Ipswich’s talking newspaper for blind people and those with serious sight loss has celebrated its 40th birthday with a party for volunteers and customers.

Sound On was set up in 1977 and uses news stories from the Star to keep those who are unable to read a traditional paper in touch with what is happening in the area.

Its technology has changed – it used to send out cassettes but now uses memory sticks – but it still relies on news cut from the Star.

Sound On held a party at Greshams to mark the anniversary – and to give volunteers the opportunity to meet each other.

New chair Pam Pelling recently took over from Eileen Damant who had run it for many years. Mrs Pelling said that despite the changes to technology, it still provided a vital news service to people who were unable to see.

The party had given volunteers and users the chance to meet, which was something that happened all too rarely.