HEALTH chiefs are reminding people planning to watch the partial eclipse of the sun tomorrow, Friday to enjoy the spectacle safely.

The eclipse begins at 8.25am. Maximum eclipse is at 9.31am when 85% of the sun will be blocked.

The eclipse ends at 10.41am. Timings will be slightly different the further north you are, but the good news is that the further north you are, the better the view!

Although eclipses of the sun are spectacular events, they should not be viewed with the unaided eye.

John O’Hagan, head of the optical radiation group at Public Health England, said: "An eclipse is an amazing spectacle and one which we expect people all over the UK to enjoy.

"But it’s important to remember that this amazing sight, if viewed incorrectly, could pose a risk to your eyesight. Even if it’s cloudy there’s a risk of eye damage.

"Sunglasses won’t give enough protection. Although they may reduce the sun’s glare, they allow you to look for longer, allowing more sunlight into the eye."

For further advice see The Royal Astronomical Society's guide to viewing an eclipse safely: https://www.ras.org.uk/publications/other-publications/2577-how-to-observe-an-eclipse-safely