A MUSEUM curator is urging people having problems with their hearing to get it checked out as part of national Deaf Awareness Week.

Bill Teatheredge, 55, who fronts the Munnings Art Museum in Dedham, has struggled with his hearing for more than 30 years after being knocked unconscious in a fall while working as a police officer.

After continuing to work in the force for another two decades while using NHS hearing aids, he was forced to medically retire in 2002 and pursued his passion for art by completing a PhD in Art History.

But during this time his standard hearing aids proved unsuitable whilst giving talks and lectures, until he was fitted with a hi-tech model by The Hearing Care Centre in Headgate, Colchester.

Mr Teatheredge said: “When I lost my hearing it was overnight, like somebody had flicked a switch.

“My standard hearing aids were uncomfortable and whistled and squeaked when I spoke, which was embarrassing when giving talks at the museum.

“Since I got the new aids, my hearing has improved significantly along with my quality of life.

“I can now smile and laugh and even form my words better.

“My face is more relaxed and so am I- they are easy to maintain and are as light as a feather.

“I can’t stress enough what a huge difference these have made to my life.”

As part of Deaf Awareness Week, the clinic is offering free hearing screenings, along with expert advice on ear and hearing related healthcare issues.

Managing director Vicki Skeels said: “Millions of people in the UK are losing their hearing but are doing nothing about it.

“One in ten of us hear so poorly that hearing aids could help, but it can take some people up to seven years to take action.

“We have regular check-ups for our eyes and teeth, so why not our hearing?”

Appointments can be made by calling 01206 760839.