AN optician in Okehampton has reached the final of the prestigious 2008 Optician Awards. Specsavers Opticians in Fore Street has been short- listed for Multiple Practice of the Year. The category recognises stores within a chain or franchise that have demonstrated excellence in eyecare over the past 12 months. Store director Julia Peggs said: 'We are extremely proud to be nominated for this award.' Her co-director Ian Wills said: 'The staff at the store work extremely hard and it is fantastic to see that our efforts are being recognised.' The category is open to practices of all sizes in high and low profile locations. The store will compete against five other opticians selected from across the country. The awards ceremony will take place at the Hilton Hotel on Park Lane, London, on Saturday, April 19. The special event will take the form of a Venetian- themed masked ball. The store has won numerous service related awards, as well as several industry achievements, including the mystery shopper award for the West Country region in 2007, 2006, and 2005. In 2006, it was shortlisted for the 'Excellence in Leadership' category in the Excellence in Eyecare awards. In the same year they were reaccredited with the Investor in People standard. Mr Wills said: 'We are heavily involved with contributing to the local community. We currently sponsor Okehampton Rugby Club, Okehampton Football Club and the annual charity golf day organised by the local Lions Club.' 'Furthermore, our staff attend the annual careers fair at Okehampton College to talk to students about optometry opportunities. We also regularly visit the local agricultural shows providing customers with information about eyecare.' The winners of the awards are chosen by experts from the industry. Each category is judged by its own panel normally comprising four industry experts and a representative of the category sponsor.
