Derry City and Strabane District Council's mayor has called on local businesses to take part in a blindfold dinner at the Guildhall in Derry on 8 October 2026.

The event, named Dine in the Dark, will mark World Sight Day and support the mayor's chosen charity, HIVE Cancer Support, while also raising awareness of sight loss. Guests will eat a three-course meal while wearing blindfolds, followed by entertainment.

Mayor Grace Uí Niallais said the dinner would give staff a better understanding of what people with sight loss experience each day. She described it as a way to challenge perceptions and encourage more inclusive workplaces.

Tickets cost £50 per person or £500 for a table of ten, with all proceeds going to HIVE Cancer Support. Attendees can also make separate donations to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on the night. Booking is available through the council website.

Robert Shilliday, RNIB's country director for Northern Ireland, said the charity welcomed the event. He noted that RNIB estimates 62,386 people in Northern Ireland are living with sight loss that affects daily life, including 4,355 in the Derry City and Strabane council area. Shilliday added that half of all sight loss is avoidable and stressed the importance of regular eye tests.

Maureen Collins, project manager at HIVE Cancer Support, said the charity was pleased to be the mayor's chosen cause. She said the dinner would highlight the work of RNIB and provide much-needed support for HIVE's services.

The council said businesses are encouraged to book tables for staff as part of inclusion and awareness training. Places are limited and early booking is advised.