HEREFORD’S only independently owned opticians has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2020 Optician Awards.

BBR Optometry, based in St Owen’s Street, was established more than 50 years ago and has been shortlisted for the social media practice and optical assistant team categories.

Practice manager Daniel Read said: “The team we have at BBR are all incredible.

“They always rise up to face any challenge. What I especially like is that they are all friends.

“They support and help each other both at work and in their personal lives. I hope the team win this award as they deserve to be recognised for their continued commitment to each other and for always delivering quality care to patients.”

The firm’s chairman Nick Rumney said in 2018 BBR took over the management of all its social media channels, which led to a noticeable increase in their statistics.

“I am delighted that we have been shortlisted in not one, but two categories at this year’s Optician Awards,” he said.

“Eighteen months ago we brought the management of our social media channels in-house, so it is incredible that our team is being recognised for the incredible effort they put in day-to-day to ensure we’re engaging with our patients online, as well as in the practice too.”

The Optician Awards aim to celebrate excellence and innovation in eye care, with this year’s winners announced at the black-tie ceremony on April 4 in Birmingham.

The business added their nomination for the optical assistant team category comes from being strong in developing all of its staff.

They hold Gold IIP recognition, which means all optical and clinical assistants have achieved qualifications in their field.

They have also all had training on hearing challenges, mental health issues and dementia.

It’s said this training enables them to draw on a wealth of knowledge and experience when dealing with patients.