A quarter of children in the West Midlands have never had an eye test.

This is according to Specsavers research which has prompted the company to launch its first eye screen van.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of children's eye health and the importance of eye tests among parents.

Equipped with visual screeners and ice lollies, the van will help identify potential eyesight problems in children and inform parents if a more comprehensive eye test is needed.

Despite 20 per cent of parents reporting school-related issues that could be linked to bad vision, about half of parents haven't taken their child for an eye test because they do not see any obvious problems.

Dean Roberts, Specsavers Malvern and Worcester store director, said: "A lot of parents assume that because their child doesn't display any signs of a vision problem, there's no need to have their eyes tested."

Mr Roberts stated that this couldn't be further from the truth.

He said: "Ensuring your child has regular eye examinations from an early age is incredibly important for several reasons.

"Given more than 80 per cent of our learning, cognitive and social abilities are facilitated through our sight, it's extremely important to your child's overall development."

Mr Roberts further added that an eye test doesn’t just check vision and that it can also detect other underlying health conditions.

Children under 16 and full-time students under 19 are entitled to an NHS-funded eye test and a free pair of glasses.

However, 24 per cent of parents are unaware of this.

Additionally, 38 per cent of children are reluctant to have an eye test, fearing pain, the dark, or are uncertain of what to expect.

In response, Specsavers will introduce its friendly Optomonsters at stores nationwide, aiming to make visits to the opticians more enjoyable.