A HEARING aid audiologist who has spent the last five years helping Tavistock customers to improve their hearing has been recognised as one of the UK's Audiologists of the Year.

Alistair Kinsey, hearing aid audiologist from the Hearing Company, was thrilled to find out that so many of his customers supported him, which led to his receiving a commendation and being regional winner of a national competition run by Rayovac in association with Audio Infos Magazine.

Alistair said: 'Over the years I must have been involved with nearly 1,000 customers but everyone requires special attention. I like to spend time with people, am never in a rush and will do home visits if getting to our store on North Street is a problem.

'I am touched that so many people took time to submit their support and make such wonderful comments. We all want to feel we are doing a great job and the response was heart-warming.'

Alistair also volunteers for Hear Me Now, a local support group with around 30 members, who meet once a month to look at helpful ways to improve hearing.

Paula Brinson–Pyke of Rayovac, the award sponsors said: 'Reading through the nominations it is clear that Alistair has a great relationship with his customers and is passionate about finding the perfect hearing aid for them.'