Two profoundly deaf Wiltshire sisters and their family have launched a nationwide event to thank the charity which helped them learn to listen.

Sade and Topaz Oram, from Warminster, were joined by younger sister Tallulah and pet dogs Zambi and QBE in backing the Loud Shirt Day event which takes place on October 23.

The event asks people to wear their brightest clothes to raise awareness for deaf children across the globe and support the Auditory Verbal UK charity which helps children learn to listen.

Sade, 21, wasn’t diagnosed with hearing loss until she was two but Topaz,19, was diagnosed soon after birth and both wear cochlear implants.

They both attended AVUK as young children and both graduated with speech and language skills on a par with hearing children of their age.

Sade said: “I am so grateful for the support I received from AVUK and my parents – I’m sure I wouldn’t have achieved just as much as I have without them.

“I want all deaf babies and children to have the same opportunities as me and my sister which is why we want as many people as possible to sign up to take part in Loud Shirt Day.”

“AVUK supported my parents to exceed their expectations by giving them the knowledge and tools to help me learn to listen and talk.

“My parents speak often of the valuable support they received from AVUK and are incredibly grateful for their role in my success.”

Topaz who is also aiming to travel when the world recovers from the global pandemic explained: “I am eternally grateful to AVUK and to my parents and especially to my older sister for being there for me and showing me what can be achieved for us. So come on everyone get out your loudest clothes and help us to create a sound future for deaf children.”

Visit https://www.avuk.org/loud-shirt-day-uk for details on the campaign.