AN Abergavenny couple whose son was born without eyes have been told their new baby is sighted.

Chris and Anna Batten of Victoria Street were devastated when Thomas was born in May 2006 and they found out his eyes had not developed while he was in the womb. He was diagnosed as carrying the OTX2 gene which caused him to have bilteral amnophthalmia, a condition which affects just 35 babies a year.

Last week Anna gave birth to a second healthy son named Rhys James and as soon as he was born she and husband Chris were told by staff at Nevill Hall hospital that he had sight. They knew his eyes had developed properly during the pregnancy because tests were carried out, but they could not be sure he would be able to see because he is also a carrier of the same gene which affected Thomas.

They were told there was a 50/50 chance of his sight being affected, so were delighted when they were told Rhys has his sight.

Thomas' condition has caused a developmental delay and in December specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London diagnosed him with autistic tendencies. But he is a very happy pupil in the reception class at Deri View Primary School where the staff have nurtured his progress.

He has artificial eyes and visits Moorfields Hospital in London every six months for checks.