UK scientists have successfully implanted an artificial eye in two patients that has given them limited vision.

The eye uses images from a tiny camera mounted on the wearer's glasses which are then fed to a series of electrodes at the back of the eyeball.

Two patients now have the Second Sight Argus II implants inserted and working normally after operations at London's Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Lyndon da Cruz, a consultant retinal surgeon, said: "Moorfields is proud to have been one of only three sites in Europe chosen to be part of evolving this exciting new technology.

"The devices were implanted successfully in both patients and they are recovering well from the operations.

"It is very special to be part of a programme developing a new type of treatment for patients who would otherwise have no chance of visual improvement. "

The device is only useful for those blinded by Retinitis Pigmentosa but can return a degree of sight to other sufferers, allowing them to see light and shade and in which direction an object is moving.

The two patients are now being monitored for long term use, and it is hoped that the treatment will be available on the NHS within the next three to five years.