Britain Scrambles for Solar Eclipse Glasses Ahead of Historic Celestial Event
Queues stretch for hundreds of metres as demand outstrips supply for ISO-certified protective eyewear across the UK.
Sarah Connor
Massive queues have formed across Britain as people scramble to secure solar eclipse glasses before tonight's historic celestial event.
The Royal Museums Greenwich, recommended by UK health officials as a trusted seller, had sold roughly 15,000 pairs over the past month. It has since confirmed a complete sell-out.
The scene outside the 24-hour Am2Pm shop on Whitechapel High Street in east London was particularly extraordinary. A queue stretched hundreds of metres through surrounding streets, forcing the shopkeeper to pass handwritten notes down the line, informing customers of a five-pair limit per person.
An extra 10,000 pairs of glasses were reportedly en route, with a further 5,000 expected at 11pm, delayed by hold-ups at Heathrow. Each pair carried a £9.99 price tag.
Some individuals travelled from Southampton and Birmingham to purchase glasses in London. In Exeter, a warehouse on Budlake Road in Marsh Barton drew such crowds on Tuesday afternoon that the rush reportedly caused traffic congestion in the surrounding area.
Customers are said to have travelled from as far away as London to secure a pair in Exeter. Members of the public also queued at Old Spitalfields Market in east London and Plassey Retail Park near Wrexham.
Peter Friend claimed many businesses in the area had ordered glasses that ultimately failed to arrive in time. The UK Health Security Agency advises that safe glasses must carry the ISO 12312-2 international certification, and lenses should remain free from scratches or damage.
Devon, Cornwall and the westernmost reaches of Pembrokeshire will reportedly enjoy the most dramatic views, with between 94 per cent and 96 per cent of the sun blocked by the moon. Plymouth is forecast to see 94.66 per cent coverage at 7.16pm, according to the Met Office.
William Hunter, Senior Science & Technology Reporter, claims the UK is braced for pandemonium and a spate of traffic accidents as the solar eclipse distracts drivers across the country. Symptoms of eye damage from unprotected solar viewing can include blurred vision, blind spots, and reduced colour perception.