Rula Lenska speaks out

14:04 12 April 2011

%%youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNnWumCiJ1E

Glamorous star Rula Lenska, has spoken out about her battle with hearing loss for the first time, as she launches a nationwide search for deaf and hard of hearing high achievers.

To mark the launch of the Sound Barrier Star awards with Specsavers hearing centres, the Coronation Street actress has admitted for the first time that she suffers from higher frequency hearing loss and wears hearing aids in both ears.

Run in conjunction with charity partner Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, the Specsavers Sound Barrier Star awards target the one in seven people in the UK that have hearing problems.

Specsavers co-founder Dame Mary Perkins says: ‘WeÂ’re delighted to have Rula on board for this yearÂ’s Sound Barrier Star awards. SheÂ’s a wonderful role model and a perfect example of how hearing loss does not need to hold you back. We hope that by understanding RulaÂ’s story other people will be happy to break the silence on their own hearing difficulties.Â’ 

Anyone can nominate themselves, a friend or family member by visiting one of over 400 Specsavers hearing centres nationwide to collect an entry leaflet.

Alternatively they can download an entry form online at www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing or www.hearingdogs.org.uk

The awards will recognise 10 regional finalists across the UK. Of these, five will be selected to attend the grand final at The Savile Club, in London on 14 September 2011.

The nine runners-up will also receive goody bags, including a £250 holiday voucher courtesy of Phoenix Holidays. The winner will receive a voucher for £1,500 off hearing services at Specsavers hearing centres and a luxury cruise, courtesy of Phoenix Holidays.

The closing date for entries is 1 July.