Computer chip implants give hope to blind

The procedure involves inserting a wafer thin computer processor under the scalp above the ear which is linked by a cable to an implant behind the retina.

The 1500-pixel retinal chip sends electronic signals direct to the optic nerve and the brain.

Up to twelve British patients will have the chip fitted as part of a major trial to treat retinitis pigmentosa, a condition which causes the light processing cells in the eye to stop functioning.

One trial patient, Chris James, was completely blind prior to the surgery. Now, he can perceive light and outlines of shapes.

Another patient, Robin Miller, says that he is dreaming in colour for the first time in 25 years, highlighting another unusual benefit of the surgery.