A KIDDERMINSTER man will have his eyes on the prize after being named as a regional semi-finalist in the Specsavers’ Spectacle Wearer of the Year competition.

Pablo Colella, who owns a fashion media company, has been selected ahead of thousands of other specs wearers as he moves a step closer to the grand final in London this October.

The 28-year-old didn’t even realise he had been entered for the competition when he got the call announcing the news, as his father put him forward and forgot to tell him.

He said: "It was certainly a shock to find out I was a regional semi-finalist.

"But I love wearing my specs, having worn them since I was a child, and think this competition is a great way to advocate looking good in your glasses.

"I have several different pairs and see them as a great fashion accessory."

Mr Colella received a bottle of champagne, a certificate and a £150 voucher from Specsavers in Kidderminster, Swan Centre, for making the regional semi-finals.

Should he progress further, he will be in with a chance of winning £10,000, a luxury holiday for two to New York and a glasses wardrobe from Specsavers worth £1,000.

Store director Tim Reeves said: "We’re delighted that Pablo has made it through to this stage of the competition.

"It’s great for us and for Kidderminster and we wish him luck in hopefully making it through to the final."

The awards were launched by former Pussycat Doll, Kimberly Wyatt, earlier this year.

If he triumphs in his 25 to 34 age category, Mr Colella will receive a VIP makeover and could meet Kimberly at the awards ceremony at London’s 8 Northumberland Avenue.