Popular opticians enter chapter of new leadership
An independent opticians in Shrewsbury, is entering an exciting new chapter under the leadership of a new director.
Shrewsbury Optometry, situated on St. Mary’s Street, has been a pillar of eye health for the local community since its establishment in 1946. Over the years, the practice has garnered an exceptional reputation for providing the highest standards of clinical excellence while nurturing enduring relationships with patients in the local area.
As of the 4th July, the opticians will be entering a new chapter as current owner and optometrist, Gareth Hardcastle, hands over the reigns to a new director.
Paul Cottrell, who will be taking the lead in practice following Gareth’s leave, brings a wealth of experience to the team, with over 17 years in the field of optometry. Having joined the practice as a locum in 2018, Paul is already familiar with the practice, team and many of the patients, aiding in a smooth transition as he takes on the role of director.
As the owner of Shrewsbury Optometry for the past 18 years, Gareth Hardcastle said: “I have wanted a new challenge for some time. I still intend to remain within optics, just in a slightly different role.
“I feel incredibly grateful to all my patients who have entrusted me with their eye care over the years, and indeed have shown great loyalty to the practice.
“I am delighted to announce that Paul will be taking over as a new partner in the practice. Paul comes with a vast amount of clinical expertise, and I am confident he will provide a seamless transfer in care.”
Fellow Optometrist and Director, Jenny Hardcastle, who specialises in paediatric eyecare at Shrewsbury Optometry, will also be stepping down from her position as Director. However, Jenny will continue to serve patients at the practice and provide clinical expertise moving forward.
During his time in practice, Gareth introduced an array of expert eye care services, bringing additional qualifications in glaucoma, contact lenses and additional prescribing rights. Poised to follow in his footsteps, Paul also has an impressive portfolio of additional qualifications, specialising in contact lenses and supported by a diverse range of workplace settings, such as time spent at Birmingham Eye Hospital.
Paul added: “Before even starting to work at Shrewsbury Optometry, I admired the practice’s reputation locally for the very best clinical care. After joining the team, I could tell that their reputation was very well deserved, and I loved working there.”
Paul hopes to uphold the high standards of eyecare that Gareth has introduced to the practice while also expanding on these specialist clinical services to keep Shrewsbury Optometry at the cutting edge of optometry provision.
