PRIME Minister Tony Blair has left one of his constituents in the dark - but it is all for a good cause.

Mr Blair visited Trimdon Labour Club, where he put a blindfold on David Newell, a Sedgefield Borough councillor, who is losing his sight for a week.

Coun Newell is raising money for Saint Dunstan's, a charity which provides care, rehabilitation and training for armed forces personnel blinded and injured during active service.

He has set himself a challenging timetable of events before the blindfold is removed at the Remembrance Sunday service, in Ferryhill.

The councillor is taking part in a Blind Date competition, chairing council meetings and working with people with learning difficulties and mental health problems.

He will be accompanied all week by Army Private David Robson, who will act as his guide.

Before the blindfold went on, Coun Newell said: "I'm a little bit anxious because I think it's going to be quite daunting."

Mr Blair is one of many people to have sponsored Coun Newell, but he is still looking for more support.

Sponsors can contact him by calling (01388) 816166.