Posts in Local Community
Posted in:
Branches, In the News, Local Community
The eyes have it for Formby pupils
By Lyndsay - 11 January 2012
FORMBY-BASED Conlons Opticians has teamed up with primary schools to help teach youngsters how to look after their eyes.
The scheme involves optical advisers visiting primary schools to talk to children about how eye works, both in humans and animals and how important it is to look after them. They get quizzed on all things to do with eyes, as well as entering a colouring competition to win some designer sunglasses.
Formby branch manager Nicole Bentham commented: "Young children are taught many things at school, from internet safety to how to brush their teeth, but many don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly, it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
The children from Year 3 at Formby's St Jerome's Catholic Primary School entered their drawings and Ciaran Lunch, 7, was a winner. He received a pair of designer sunglasses.
Tagged with: eye-care, Formby
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Eye experts to give their help in Africa
By Lyndsay - 5 January 2012
A BARROW optician is set to travel to Africa with a team of eye experts to help tackle blindness.
Ian Hechle from Conlons Opticians in Dalton Road will travel to Ghana this month on behalf of the Eye Aid for Africa charity to launch a new glazing workshop and visit a host of villages to offer help to those in need of eyecare.
Conlons donated two complete sets of glazing equipment and manufacturer Zeiss has donated 2,000 lenses to be used for the glasses.
During the two-week trip, Mr Hechle will be joined by Conlons optometrists Alice Joyce from the Formby branch and Karen McGowan from the Liverpool branch.
The taskforce of eye experts will perform more than 700 eye tests as well as helping to produce and distribute more than 1,500 pairs of glasses to people near Kumasi in central Ghana.
They will also be accompanied by optometrist Barry Partridge and his wife Patti, who dispenses spectacles, and eye surgeon Patrick Joyce.
The team will see countless patients ranging from young children, who have never had an eye test before, who will be given the gift of better sight, to adults such as crane and taxi drivers, who rely on their sight for their livelihoods, who will have their vision corrected with glasses or cataract surgery if required.
Mr Hechle, who visited the African country in 2010 for the same charity, said: "We are delighted to have the support of Zeiss this year with their most generous donation of lenses.
"In Africa, access to optical services, as well as cost, prohibits many from being able to see clearly, if at all and the team and I are looking forward to being able to help people on this trip."
Eye Aid for Africa is a specialist charity set up by Mrs Joyce and her husband, Patrick who, for the last 10 years, with the voluntary support of British medical and eyecare professionals have performed numerous cataract operations and dispensed thousands of secondhand spectacles in the south of Ghana near the capital city, Accra.
About 2.6 million people in West Africa are blind, but about three quarters could have their sight saved with the right medical help.
Andrew Hinslewood, national sales manager at Zeiss, said: "The need for eye care spreads across all generations. Children simply cannot learn if they can't see the blackboard and we are delighted to have been able to help with this most important compaign."
Tagged with: Barrow, eye-care
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
General, In the News, Local Community
Christmas in Liverpool
By Lyndsay - 8 November 2011
Starting 5th November 2011, Liverpool will be the host to the most magical christmas celebrations ever. Conlons, being a Liverpool based company since 1882, whole-heartedly support this bid.
4 November 2011 - 29 January 2012
Alice in Wonderland at Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock
Alice in Wonderland at Tate Liverpool is the first exhibition of its kind to explore how Lewis Carroll's stories have influenced the visual arts, inspiring generations of artists. The exhibition will provide insight into the creation of the novels and the inspiration they have provided for artists through the decades.
5 November 2011 - 24 December 2011
Christmas Grotto at Rapid, Tickets available from the 3rd Floor
Formerly of Lewis's, this famous grotto is a must for familties seeking a magical momento from Santa.
9 November 2011, 6pm
Christmas Lights Switch On at City Centre
The lights, made by people with varying disabilities, will extend into new parts of the city centre with new effects such as 3D chandeliers and 3D baubles.
9 November 2011 - 24 December 2011
Christmas in the Park at Chavasse Park, Liverpool One
A wide range of festive events are lined up that will enchant and delight the whole family, from Santa's Grotto and a real Ice Rink to the Polar Bar for the grown ups!
24 November 2011 - 22 December 2011, Every Thursday
Christmas at Metquarter
Find your favourite designer names hidden in our Alice inspired Winter Wonderland. FREE ACTIVITIES
24 November 2011 - 22 December 2011
Christmas Market at Lord Street, Church Street, Whitechapel
Travel the world this Christmas with more than 50 of the finest craft and food stalls from across five continents.
24 November 2011 - 17 December 2011, Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday
The Art Lids Wonderland at Clayton Square
The workshop by Liverpool John Moores University and inspired by the Alice in wonderland exhibition at Tate Liverpool, will offer handy arts and craft tips to those looking to put that special touch into their Christmas preparations. FREE ACTIVITIES
26 November 2011 - 8 January 2012
Winter Wonderland Simulator at Church Street. £3
1 December 2011 - 5 January 2012
The Curious Garden at Williamson Square
Step inside a world of wonder and delight where things are not quite what they seem.
1,8,15 & 22 December 2011
Live Reindeers at Queens Square. FREE
3,10,17 & 24 December 2011
Salvation Army Bands at the Tree at Church Street. FREE
3,4 December 2011
Winter Arts Market at St George's Hall
Taking place in the lead up to Christmas you'll find perfect presents at prices for all pockets including Paintings, photographs, prints, sculpture, textiles, knit wear, clothing, cards, vintage prints and photographs, ceramics, jewellery, glass, handmade beauty products, accessories and much more! - UNDER 16s FREE
3 December 2011 - 21 January 2012
Cinderella, Rock ‘n‘ Roll Panto at Liverpool Playhouse
9 December 2011 - 8 January 2012
Snow White at Royal Court
This timeless story of a beautiful princess in a fairytale land is perfect for children of all ages and the show is packed with local talent.
10 December 2011
Christmas Toy Appeal finale at Clayton Square
The Toy Appeal will be running until Christmas so there is plenty of time to hop on a bus and come into town to donate a toy in St Johns or Clayton Square. FREE ACTIVITIES
Come visit Conlons in Liverpool and indulge yourself in the christmas festivity when we put up christmas decorations.
Tagged with: Kids, Liverpool
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Calling all secondary school teachers
By Lyndsay - 19 May 2011
Calling all secondary school teachers (and students taking their GCSE or A’ Level options)Conlons Opticians is now accredited as a “Living Life in a New Dimension” workshop provider with three “ambassadors” trained and ready to deliver the workshop style lessons in secondary schools in your area. The fast-paced workshop uses the principles of 3D as a springboard and students learn about illusions, light and sight in a fun, supportive and engaging environment. They then watch a specially commissioned short 3D film which encourages them to think broadly about their future career options. The content of the workshop is mapped to the key stage 3 and 4 curriculum and each workshop is delivered by an
optometrist or
dispensing optician.
The 45-60 minute workshop is suited to all secondary science students, but is particularly aimed at year 9 and year 11 pupils about to take their GCSE or A’ Level options who will be thinking about their future careers. The high quality study materials include a personal work book and careers advice pack for each student to keep for future reference. Following each workshop interested students will also be able to gain work experience placements at their local Conlons Opticians where they will gain further insight into the various careers available at an opticians. Conlons ambassadors are also available to attend school and sixth form college careers events.
This national initiative supported by all the universities and colleges that train opticians and optometrists, as well as their professional bodies, and has recently won the prestigious Innovation in Recruitment Award up against such prestigious competition as Adidas, BT and Royal Bank of Scotland. Teachers and students can find out more at
http://newdimensioninoptics.org and those that are interested in arranging a workshop can email
training@conlons.co.uk with a contact details including email address and phone number, or “contact us” through
www.conlons.co.uk .
Tagged with: eye-care, Kids
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
Conlons visits Ormskirk schools
By Lyndsay - 10 March 2011
CONLONS Opticians have been visiting schools around Ormskirk to teach children about their eyes.
Explaining how the eye works, the lessons aim to make pupils understand the importance of telling their parents if they think they are having problems with their sight.
The opticians also hope to raise awareness among parents that eye tests are free for under-16s.
Lynne Cross, branch manager at the Aughton Street-based clinic has visited several primary schools so far.
She said: “We do a presentation running through pictures of the eye, explaining in easy terms how it works.
“The kids get involved and we get them to have a look at a pair of glasses – and contact lenses so they know there are other options to glasses.
“We tell them it’s important to get your eyes tested. If you are having trouble seeing the board you need to let your parents know.
“It’s just to encourage people to be aware they need to get their eyes tested even if they are not complaining of poor sight.
“Children can often accommodate difficulties in their eyes and don’t always realise there are problems with what they see.”
The scheme has been a success so far, and within an information pack given to pupils to take home for their parents is a colouring competition.
The winner of the first colouring competition was year five pupil Melisa Gray, from Town Green Primary School in Aughton, who won a pack of colouring goodies.
Tagged with: eye-care, Ormskirk
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, Eye Health, In the News, Local Community
Nahidur eyes up top prize
By Lyndsay - 3 February 2011
Children at primary schools in Tameside learnt a lesson about their eyes.
Staff from Conlons opticians in Ashton visited local primary school to tell youngsters how eyes work in humans and animals.
After learning about the importance of caring for their eyes, the children were invited to enter a drawing competition with the winner, year three pupil Nahidur Rahman of West End primary, picking up the first prize of a pair of designer sunglasses.
Tagged with: eye-care, Kids, Tameside
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Conlons duo deliver specs to Ghana
By Lyndsay - 1 February 2011
Two key members of Conlons staff recently returned from Ghana where they took 800 pairs, or £10,000 worth of spectacles that Conlons, with the help of Shamir who supplied the lenses, donated to the charity Eye Aid Africa.
During the one-week trip,
optometrist Alice Joyce from the Formby branch and Ian Hechle, branch manager and
dispensing optician from Conlons in Barrow, performed more than 1,000 sight tests and helped to distribute more than 1,500 pairs of spectacles. Alice and Ian travelled to Ghana as part of a team from the charity Eye Aid Africa.
Ian said: "The experience was very moving and served to emphasise how important good eyecare is. In Africa, access to optical services, as well as cost, prohibits many from being able to see clearly, if at all. It was clear it would be a busy week when on the first day we dispensed 227 pairs of glasses and on the second day we had to buy a large number of ready readers and low minus glasses from the market. This exercise was repeated again later in the week and by the time we finished at the end of the week, we had prescribed and dispensed around 1,500 pairs of glasses."
For every pair of spectacles Conlons customers buy, they receive two free pairs. One pair is donated to helping improve eyecare in Africa and the other is for the customer to keep.
Tagged with: eye-care
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Pupil picks up prize for design
By Lyndsay - 11 January 2011
An Optician's has teamed up with primary schools to teach children how to look after their eyes.
Optical advisors from Conlons Optician's in Shotton are visiting schools to talk to children about how eyes work, and how important it is to look after them.
Maijella Walsh, branch manager of the Chester Road West shop said: "Young children are taught many things at school, from internet safety to how to brush their teeth, but many don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly, it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
Children have the opportunity to answer questions on what they have learned about eyes, and can enter a colouring competition run by the optician's to win some designer sunglasses.
Bethan Martin, six, a year three pupil at Shotton Infant School, received a pair of the designer sunglasses prize after her class took part in the competition.
Tagged with: eye-care, Kids, Shotton
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Isobel's poster wins eyesight contest
By Lyndsay - 24 November 2010
CHILDREN are being shown how to look after their eyes by a Widnes opticians.
Conlons in Albert Road is championing a new scheme to help youngsters understand how important it is to look after their eyesight.
Opticians have been visiting primary schools to talk to pupils about how eye work, both in humans and animals.
Children are then asked questions and invited to enter a colouring competition.
Lise Fallding, branch manager and
dispensing optician said: "Young children are taught many things at school from internet safety to how to brush their teeth but many don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly, it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
Children from year threee are Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Primary School in Clinton View, Widnes, entered their drawings in the competition.
Isobel Saunders, aged eight, received a junior pair of designer sunglasses and her winning entry was framed.
Tagged with: eye-care, Widnes
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Aaron's new specs means he can play for the first time
By Lyndsay - 1 November 2010
Arron Barnes can finally go football crazy!
The 10-year-old has had a problem with his eye since birth which meant he could never enjoy what he loved doing best, playing football.
Arron who lives in Leigh, has a weak muscle in his left eye, making it turn to the left.
After an unsuccessful operation to tighten the eye muscle, Arron was left on the sidelines during games. He could only watch his local football teams and schoolfriends take part in PE lessons.
But now, thanks to Conlons opticians, Arron has been provided with specially-made sports glasses, like those seen on Dutch maestro Edgar Davids, currently playing at Crystal Palace.
That means he can now play his favourite game to his heart's content - and Arron has lost no time in signing up for the under 11s Leigh Genesis team.
Arron said: "I think my new glasses are awesome, I'm really happy with them because i can do anything now."
Arron has worn glasses since he was a young child.
He was always advised never to take part in sport while wearing his glasses, which meant he was constantly left out.
His dad, Ron, said: "Arron always felt left out of everything. I can understand people not wanting him to take part with his glasses on but he needs to wear them all the time.
"I had never seen these sport goggles on anybody but Edgar Davids before, but when the opticians offered Arron these, I thought they were brilliant. He takes his glasses off and wears these when he plays football as they have
prescription lenses.
"I'm really happy that he has these because he is so happy too, he's always playing football now and he's really good at it.
"He's going into high school next year, so it's good that he has managed to get these glasses now."
John Welsby Managing Director said: "We are delighted to see that Arron is now able to enjoy playing football with our specially made sports glasses.
"At Conlons we feel it is very important for both children and adults to receive the best possible customer care and we are delighted to have been able to help Arron in his quest to play football.
"If a child has trouble with their sight and it is not picked up quickly it can have a real effect on their progress at school and in the sports they enjoy so we feel it's very important to encourage children to look after their eyes and have regular eye tests.
"We have recently been visiting schools across the Leigh area to talk to children about the importance of eye health."
Tagged with: eye-care, Leigh
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
Pupil Zoe opens eyes
By Lyndsay - 14 October 2010
A Leigh schoolgirl has won a competition to encourage youngsters to look after their eyes.
Seven-years-old Zoe Radley, from St Thomas' Primary School, in Leigh, received a pair of junior designer sunglasses after producing the winning entry in Conlons Opticians colouring competition.
The opticians, in Spinning Gate, Leigh, has lauched a pioneering a new scheme to help children realise how important it is to look after their eyesight.
The scheme involves optical advisors visiting local primary schools to talk to children about how eyes work, both in humans and animals, and how important it is to look after them.
Branch manager Clare Raynes said: "Many children don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly, it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
Tagged with: Leigh
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
General, In the News, Local Community
New partnerships, new challenges
By Lyndsay - 1 October 2010
At the Association's AGM in Bristol on 9 October, Jennifer Brower of Area 11 will become the new ABDO President, with Peter Black of Area 3 taking over as Vice President.
New partnerships, new challenges
Jennifer BrowerWell known within the profession, Jennifer is a
dispensing optician and low
vision practitioner and works in partnership with her
optometrist husband, David, in an independent practice in Hertfordshire. David is an associate member of ABDO and was the first
optometrist to gain the ABDO Low
Vision Honours Diploma. He is also a contact lens practitioner and has interest in sports
vision and ocular therapeutics and so between them, the couple are able to offer a wide range of optical services to their patients.
During her two years as ABDO Vice President, Jennifer has been involved in many new initiatives including the establishment of the Optical Confederation which has brought together ABDO, the AOP, FODO, the FMO and the ACLM, to formalise joint working and representation of the optical professions. Talking to Dispensing Optics in the run-up to taking office, Jennifer said: "it was my previlege to speak on ABDO's behalf at the Optical Confederation launch earlier this year and I believe that the Confederation, by speaking with one voice on so many important optical issues, will achieve much for the profession which was previously thought impossible."
Another project that Jennifer has been involved with is the on-going review of the ABDO Area structure. Jennifer explained: "Having served as an Area chairman for many years, I am well aware of the problems which Area committees face and intend to do everything possible to improve the help and support available." An initial report has been produced in conjunction with Area representatives, which proposes organisational help plus increased consultation and greater Area participation in ABDO politics. Jennifer continues to support her home Area 11 - London - and has had the pressure of visiting others. "In my opinion, local meetings are one of the best ways of getting to know others, sharing opinions and formulating strategy, and I look forward to attending more."
One of Jennifer's major concerns at present is the rise in poor quality dispensing by unqualified people. She explained: "The GOC points out that it is difficult to investigate these cases without hard evidence and so I will be introducing a plan to highlight these problems and reduce their effects." Asked if there was one theme that she expected to run through her Presidential term, Jennifer responded: "I think communication is a key issue. This is such an important skill and one of our core competencies, but it is not just about with how we deal with our patients. It is a priority of mine to improve the communication the ABDO board has with the membership, not only to share information but to receive valuable feedback."
Low
vision remains one of the prime interests in Jennifer's optical life and she is a member of the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) working group, which has recently produced a new Low
Vision Pathway in which dispensing opticians can participate. "Accreditation is necessary but it does not require specialist low
vision qualifications and I am confident that the pathway represents an excellent opportunity for our members to become involved in the provision of low
vision services."
Tagged with: eye-care
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Young encouraged to care for eyes
By Lyndsay - 8 September 2010
An OPTICIANS in Formby has been teaching youngsters how to look after their eyes.
Optician Alice Joyce at the Halsall Lane Branch teamed up with local primary schools in a pioneering scheme to help children realise the importance of looking after their eyesight.
The scheme involves a qualified optician visiting local primary schools to talk to children about how eyes work in humans and animals and how important it is to look after them.
As part of the initiative the youngsters are quizzed on everything relating to their eyes.
They also have the oppertunity to enter a colouring competition to win some designer sunglasses.
Nicole Clayton, branch manager and
dispensing optician, said: "Young children are taught many things at school, from internet safety to how to brush their teeth.
"But many don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly, it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
Children from Year Three at Trinity St Peters Primary School on Paradise Lane entered their drawing into the competition.
Winner Sophia Fielding, who is eight years old, received a pair of junior designer sunglasses.
Her winning entry has been framed and displayed in the branch.
She was also presented with a necklace and jewellery box.
Parents are supposed to have their children's eyes checked every two years even if they don't wear glasses.
Conlons Opticians in Formby has also recently launched a new hearing test service and a range of hearing aid products.
Tagged with: eye-care, Formby, Kids
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, In the News, Local Community
A fun way to learn about eye care
By Lyndsay - 12 August 2010
Children are seeing clearly thanks to a new scheme.
Shotton-based opticians has teamed up with primary schools to teach children how to look after their eyes.
Pupils from Year Three at Golftyn Primary School have been taking part in the scheme and were visited by an optician who talked to them about how eyes work, both in humans and in animals.
This was followed by a eye themed quiz and a colouring competition.
The winning entry from the school was Abigail Collins who was rewarded with a pair of junior designer sunglasses. Her winning entry has now been framed and displayed in the opticians.
Branch manager Maijella Walsh said: "Young children are taught many things at school, from internet safety to how to brush their teeth, but many don't know how important it is to look after their eyes and to have regular eye tests.
"If a child has trouble with their eyesight and it is not picked up quickly it can have a real effect on their progress at school."
For further information on the scheme contact Mary Jane Greenhalgh on 07866 722051 or email
maryjane@greenrowcheshire.co.uk.
Tagged with: eye-care, Shotton
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, Eye Health, General, In the News, Local Community
Seeing is believing
By Lyndsay - 22 July 2010
MOFFAT Nursery children were given a talk on the importance of good eyesight recently.
Staff from Conlon's opticians launched a new programme where they will visit primary schools and educate children using a fun and interactive presentation they have put together about eyes.
Conlon's gives each child a goodie bag and entry form to a colouring-in competition to win a pair of designer sunglasses.
The company also provides information for the parents on recognising any problems early on with their child's eyesight and further literature to help maintain healthy eyes.
Young Indy Swan was the winner of the recent colouring-in competition and received a pair of designer sunglasses.
Alison Fraser, branch manager of conlon's in Dumfries, said: "As a company Conlon's has been in this business for over 128 years and we feel it is important for us to educate children about the importance of good eyesight and how to preserve the health and wellness of their eyes.
"We have made the talk very interactive and fun and the children love it and we enjoy presenting it and spending time with them."
"They are also very excited to get the goodie bags we left with them and we had some great entries to the colouring-in competition so well done to all those who took part!"
Tagged with: Dumfries, eye-care, Kids
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
Working Day: Conlons Opticians director with vision for future
By Peter MB - 19 May 2010
Peter , 33, is strategic director at Conlons Opticians, based in Liverpool and with branches throughout the North West. He lives with his wife and two young children in Heswall
6:45 am: The new day is introduced either by alarm or, more often, by one of my children, Oliver, four, or Charlotte, one. I always get tea for my wife and milk for Oliver and Charlotte, while they come to.
7.25 am: After a quick shower, change and bowl of cereal, I am in the car listening to the news and music until I get to our head office on Mount Pleasant, Liverpool. This was our original branch, set up by my great-great- grandfather, in 1882.
8am: I almost invariably find I am beaten in by our managing director, who works tirelessly from morning to night. The dishwasher is unloaded and the coffee is created to ensure the brain engine is turned to "on".
My first jobs are getting up to date with emails and other administrative tasks. We have recently updated our website so I have lots of emails today to deal with relating to this. I open my post and some lovely photos and a thank you note arrive from some friends of Conlons who recently led a pilgrimage to Lourdes – we provided some funding which went towards helping some very ill children be able to go and for the cost of doctors to accompany them. I will speak to the team about putting the pictures on our blog.
9am: Everyone else has arrived in the office, usually they have very smiley faces, although today everyone looks a bit more tired than usual as we have just returned from our two-day annual conference in Llandudno, which was a great success. Each year, we have a gala dinner where there was lots of celebrating as several staff received awards for their staff loyalty and outstanding customer service.
I normally have a meeting at 9.30am and today it is at our meeting rooms here with one of our suppliers, Jimmy Choo, to discuss their up- and-coming ranges.
11am: Meeting with our new hearing aid manager, Graham Roberts, and marketing director Lyndsay Johnson. We are currently launching a range of hearing tests and products, and there is lots to do on the marketing side of this that we discuss.
12:30pm: A quick chicken sandwich with my father, who is chairman of Conlons, and wants to catch up on property matters and the next branch refit we will be working on. I also have a quick walk round the block to get some fresh air.
1.30pm: Meeting with our website team from Lancaster – we have just launched a new blog that we are really pleased with, and there are a few technical issues to be discussed.
3:30pm: Meeting with our branch manager Simon Moores, at our Ranelagh Street branch, Liverpool, to discuss some new designer frames we will be stocking. I also congratulate Simon and three other members of staff – Neill Hannah, Sue Judic and Marie Wood – who are celebrating 100 years of working at the Liverpool branch between them.
5.30pm: I leave for home so I’m back in time for bath and bedtime for Ollie and Lottie – tonight it is Peppa Pig and lots of splashing in the bath.
7.30pm: Dinner with my wife, Rachel – we always try to sit down together at the table to eat. Tonight it is salmon teriyaki and noodles washed down with a beer and some ice-cream for pudding – it’s my favourite and a bit of a treat.
8.30pm: Tonight we are not doing anything, so I will put in an hour or so of work to ensure I’m prepared for the next day. I also like to fit in gym, squash, meet with friends, etc, so regularly do this in the evenings, too.
9:30pm: I relax in front of the TV with Rachel before bed. It’s the election debate, so perhaps not so relaxing.
Tagged with: Head Office, Liverpool
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
Award for Opticians
By Lyndsay - 5 May 2010
A CUMBRIAN opticians' branch has recorded impressive financial results despite the recession.
Staff at Conlons in Penrith were honoured for their achievements at the firm's annual awards ceremoney.
They received the prize for most impressive turnaround figure, which marks the highest improvement of turnover from last year. It was presented to staff by Conlons chairman Mike Barton.
He said: "Our team at Penrith consistently provide a top level of service and I'd like to thank them all for their loyalty, hard work and dedication."
Tagged with: Penrith
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
Long service award for hard-working Stephanie
By Lyndsay - 4 May 2010
A LONG-serving employee has been honoured for her dedication at an optician's.
Stephanie Kerr has clocked up 15 years of service at Conlons Opticians in Shotton and was presented with an award at a company ceremony in Llandudno.
Conlons chairman Mike Barton said: "Stephanie has proved that her positive attitude and tight controls are a winning formula for success. Over the last 15 years, she has consistently provided a top level of service to the company and we'd like to thank her for her loyalty, hard work and dedication over the years."
Tagged with: Shotton
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, General, In the News, Local Community
128 years - and growing
By Lyndsay - 12 April 2010
Tagged with: Liverpool
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, In the News, Local Community
Optician gives kids new look
By Lyndsay - 24 February 2010
A Wigan opticians has stepped in to provide a junoir football team with a brand new kit.
Seneley and Garswood Juniors under-eights A and B team look the part in their new maroon kit sponsored by Conlons Opticians in Leigh.
The opticians chose to sponsor the young team because their kits were worn and had been handed down from a previous under-eights team.
Clare Raynes, branch manager for Conlons in Leigh, said: "We are delighted to have been able to provide the teams with their smart new kit and would like to wish them luck."
Tagged with:
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, In the News, Local Community
Opticians celebrates 127th anniversary
By Lyndsay - 18 February 2010
Chester Evening Leader - 1st February 2010
Staff at an opticians have shown they are focused on their career after totting up 127 years' service between them.
Nine workers at Conlons opticians in Shotton will soon be overtaking the company itself, which is celebrating its own 127th anniversary this year.
Store manager Marie Aspey said: "We all really enjoy working with the local community and are very proud that between us we have worked for Conlons for 127 years.
Tagged with: Shotton
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
In the News, Local Community
Jake has a keen eye for a picture
By Lyndsay - 18 February 2010
North West Evening Mail (Series) - 26th November 2009
A budding artist has won a selection of art supplies.
Jake Cooke, who goes to Brisbane Park Infants School in Barrow, entered the colouring competition, along with his fellow pupils.
The monthly competition is organised by Conlons Opticians, which visit different schools in Barrow to invite them to take part.
Jake, 7, coloured in a picture of zoo animals, and has won a selection of art supplies, toys and sunglasses.
Eve Miles, corporate eye care advisor at the Dalton Road opticians, said: "We go to different schools every month and hand out bags so that different children can join in every month."
Jake said: "I love colouring in, I used different glitters for each part of the picture."
Tagged with:
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Posted in:
Branches, In the News, Local Community
Opticians plays the generation game
By Lyndsay - 18 February 2010
Runcorn & Widnes World Series - 13th February 2010
Three generations of a Widnes family celebrated the success of a long established optician this week.
Conlons marked its 63rd year in the town by donating more than £1,500 to Widnes charities.
Lesley Blackburn, aged 44, of Lindisfarne Court, her mum Marilyn Higginson, aged 63, of Spinney Avenue and her nan Dolly Higginson, aged 82, of Coronation Drive, are their longest serving customers.
Dolly, a customer for 63 years, said: "The staff are so helpful and always remember me when I walk through the door.
"It is a very personal service."
Conlons now employs seven staff and organised various events including parachute jumps and white water rafting to raise money for charity.
Tagged with: Customers, Widnes