Two loyal customers were the focus of attention when they officially launched the new location for a Kingstanding opticians.

Mrs Pauline Dugmore, aged 80, and Mr Derek Knight, aged 75, performed the honours at Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care at Kingstanding Road on The Circle and received gift vouchers and flowers as a thank you.

Two branches in Kingstanding Centre - Scrivens and Vernon Walker Opticians – have merged and the staff have moved across the road to the bigger and better premises.

Great grandmother Pauline, who worked as a housekeeper at the former St Margaret’s Hospital in Great Barr for 30 years, has been a Scrivens customer since she was a child. Her husband Alfred is also a customer.

She said:

“The staff always look after me; they are very nice. It was a surprise when I was asked to help open the new branch, I thought ‘why me?’”

Derek has been a customer of Vernon Walker Opticians, now part of the Scrivens Group, since 1996 and cites the friendly, helpful staff for his loyalty. His wife Madeline, two of his daughters and of one his grandchildren attend the same branch.

The retired heavy goods driver said:

“I only live around the corner and regularly pop in. I enjoy the banter and the service. I was touched when they asked me to help with the launch.”

Manager Sharla Patel said:

“Our new store looks amazing and we wanted to mark its opening in style. Pauline and Derek have entrusted their eye care to us for a long time and we thought it fitting that they officially open our new premises.”

The branch features the latest digital eye examination equipment and a new and updated range of frames, including the latest designer names. A full range of hearing care services is provided too. Offers including a £10 eye test and up to 50% off frames will also celebrate the launch.

Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care is a family business which was established in 1938. It has 181 stores in England and Wales and 1,100 employees. For more information, visit www.scrivens.com