The RNID, which has just launched its Christmas Appeal, has a number of celebrity supporters, including Alan Titchmarsh, Eric Sykes, Sir Terry Wogan, Sir Cliff Richard, Jools Holland, Sir Paul McCartney, Dr Mark Hamilton, Moby, Lemar Obika and Phil Collins. Some of these have experienced hearing loss themselves.

Partially deaf Phil Collins said, "If you are a musician, your ears are your tools. If you're a working musician then take the extra time and care to try to make your workplace "bulletproof". You only get one pair of ears and if they go..."

Comedian, actor and author, Eric Sykes has a hearing loss and encourages anyone that is concerned about their hearing to get it checked out. He said, "ignoring a potential hearing loss can have far-reaching effects on people's everyday lives, from not being able to hear your children's laughter to feeling isolated and cut off from friends and family. I should know, I have a hearing loss myself."

To get an indication of your level of hearing you can call RNID’s simple, confidential, five-minute telephone hearing check on 0845 600 5555. Taking the check for both your ears could be your first step to hearing conversations with your family and friends more clearly.

Sir Terry Wogan said, ''One of the greatest pleasures in life is having a good chat and in my profession you have to be a good listener as well, so being able to hear clearly has always been important to me. Take part in RNID's Breaking The Sound Barrier campaign by taking the telephone hearing check."

Read more about the RNID's new Christmas appeal here.