A BLIND singer who overcame her disability to take to the stage has returned to her home town of Bury.

Katie Lee Carpenter now hopes to help charities by performing in fundraising shows.

Katie has suffered vision problems since birth and became totally blind at the age of 16.

But she was determined that the disability would not stop her achieving her dream of becoming a singer.

Katie, aged 59, began singing professionally in 1966 and has performed in many clubs and bars over the years.

She became well-known in the area for her shows, which included her original songs and covers of artists such as Dusty Springfield and Cher.

She said: “I didn’t have any problems because of my eyesight. I was on the stage to show my ability, not my disability, so it didn’t matter that I couldn’t see.”

Katie took a break from singing when she moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 2001, but hopes to get back to the stage after returning to Bury last week.

She is looking for charities and other good causes in the area which would like her to sing to raise money.

Katie, of Vernon Street, said: “I am delighted to be back in Bury. I didn’t realise how much I had missed being here.

“Performing for charity will allow me to do what I love and raise money at the same time. I really want to help other people and give something back to the town.”

Any charities wishing to speak to Katie about a fundraising event can contact her on 07789 766093.