Graham Bennett
Dispensing Optician - FBDO
Introduce yourself
Born an Everton supporter, I’m on the wrong side of the Pennines but I’ve now lived in Yorkshire longer than my hometown of Liverpool. Study brought me to Bradford over 25 years ago and a years training as a student Dispensing Optician at, what was then David Kenyon Opticians, was enough for me to stick around.
Little did I know then that I’d make a home, marry and raise two children in Bingley, though I’ve managed to “brainwash” them both in to supporting the Toffees.
Working in the same community Opticians over the years has given me great satisfaction. I’ve seen people I met as children become adults and bring their children for appointments.
Why Optometry?
Initially I wanted to know what the real name for my wonky eyes was and why I needed to wear glasses.
Once I’d got these answers and many more besides. I realised that the world of Optics was a rare place that fulfilled both my interests in science and fashion.
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
I love “Mad in Italy” Eyewear at the moment. Their use of materials and quirky styling makes for some amazing frames.
Mirror patterned Nylon fronts, carbon fibre detail and sides made out of granite that has been ground down and blasted on to a stainless steel skeleton appeals to the inner geek in me.
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Not usually in that order but yes all of those. Wine is most probably my favourite tipple. I’m no connoisseur so I rely on our local wine merchant who seems to know what I like.
What is your favourite song?
I’m a bit of a new music magpie, always looking for the next great song rather than treasuring an old classic. At the moment my shiny tune is Wages by Bad Sounds.
What do you see 20 years in the future for Optometry?
I see a greater involvement in the management of Glaucoma/Diabetics and Age-related Macula Degeneration in the community. The equipment that is common place in hospitals will become standard in most Opticians.
The pressure on Hospital Eye departments that we are already seeing today can only be relieved by greater involvement from the local Optometrists.
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
I put the wrong pole code in my Sat Nav and ended up here. Please can I book an Eye Test.
Fay Bennett
Dispensing Optician - FBDO
Introduce yourself
I’m a West Country girl who landed in Yorkshire (Bingley) in 1991 and once here, I was told my Grandfather was from Gargrave which instilled a love of both Yorkshire and family history which is now a time consuming side-project!
I come from a very sporty family, my daughter plays football for Bradford City. Me, I run. My cousin once joked I couldn’t run further than the next lampost… I now run 25km a week and regularly run 10k races. Nobody is more surprised about that than me!
I love to read, mainly history or non-fiction. Probably because I’m so nosey 🙂
Why Optometry?
Nobody in my family wears specs and as I’m blind as the proverbial bat, I wanted to find out why (I now know, but I won’t bore you). I took a job at a national optician chain and was encouraged to pursue a career; I ended up in Bradford ready to take on Opthalmic Dispensing! Years on, I love the thrill of seeing a customer, who tries something out of their comfort zone, realise their new look is awesome and suits the right down to the ground. The products and technology also gives me a continuous education, which is fantastic. Oh, and I love talking to people!
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
Face à Face. It’s funky, colourful and pushes the boundaries. It makes me smile.
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Mason’s Lavender Gin with Rose Lemonade is pretty awesome!
What is your favourite song?
I like most things, but I’d have to go for ‘Playing with Knives’ by Bizarre Inc.
What do you see 20 years in the future for Optometry?
State of the art technology that is only really available within the hospital eye service at present, will be the norm in a community practice.
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
I need some cool polarising sunglasses, this sombrero is doing nothing for my street cred! I’ve heard you can help?
Barney Norris BSc (Hons) MCoptom
Optometrist
Introduce yourself
Why Optometry?
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Tea!
What is your favourite song?
What do you see 20 years in the future for Optometry?
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
¡Hola! ¿Puedes arreglar mis gafas de sol rotas?
Jenny Capozio BSc (hons) Prof Cert Glauc
Optometrist
Introduce yourself
I’ve been testing eyes now for 15year+ and still really enjoy what I do. Last year I gained an additional glaucoma certificate and started teaching students at the university. I’m a member of the Local Optical Committee and help to organise training events for Optometrists across the area. There is always something new to learn in this profession. When I’m not working I’m at home with a young family, riding a motorbike, running, or sewing something to wear.
Why Optometry?
I always wanted to do something health care related and enjoyed learning about how things work. I also like problem solving which is how I view an eye examination; whether that’s improved vision with a new pair of glasses or diagnosing an eye condition that needs treating.
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
Right now I’d have to say Etnia Barcelona, as thats what I currently wear, but this could change once I try some new styles, or the rest of the Kenyon’s team re-educate me.
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Tea, I don’t do coffee. Gin yes please! Preferably with something other than tonic.
What is your favourite song?
This changes almost weekly because I play it on repeat until I can’t stand it any longer. Previous favourites have been Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars & Taylor Swift but anything I can sing along with really loud!
What do you see 20 years in the future for Optometry?
More advances in equipment and treatments for common eye conditions. Optometry working more closely with the hospital departments monitoring and treating eye conditions.
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
What did the big snowman say to the little snowman? Can you smell carrots?
Michelle Themistocleous
Dispensing Advisor
Introduce yourself
Michelle, wife, mum of two girls. 23 years optical experience. Gym fanatic and travel lover who enjoys eating out with a good glass of Red.
Generally loves life!
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
Face à Face as it’s funky and bold.
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Coffee first thing, Gin last thing.
What is your favourite song?
Mr Brightside (Killers) because it makes me want to dance.
What do you see 20 years in the future for Optometry?
State of the art technology that is only really available within the hospital eye service at present, will be the norm in a community practice.
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
Global warming sucks!
Liz Richmond
reception and administration
Introduce yourself
Me, myself and I. Liz. A grandma to one wonderful granddaughter, a mother of two, the owner of a wired haired vizsla (dog) and partner to Nick.
(see where Nick comes in the list, Oops)
I love being arty, but would say socialising is my best attribute.
I was born in West Africa but have lived in Kirkby Lonsdale, Haworth, London, Haworth and now live in Bingley, which I love.
I’ve done some jobs in my life, such as Nanny, Training Manager, Project Manager, Events Manager, Florist and now receptionist.
And my most favourite thing in the world is spending time with my gorgeous granddaughter.
Which is your favourite eyewear brand?
At the moment Face A Face. They’re my latest glasses. Really funky and different.
Tea, coffee, gin or beer?
Gin of course!
What is your favourite song?
Anything from David Bowie
A penguin walks into the Opticians right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say?
There are two kinds of people in this world
Mexicans and Mexi-can’ts!
