OPTICIANS in Teignmouth have been marking 100 years of caring for people’s eyesight.

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) visited the Specsavers Teignmouth store to recognise the vital role the professionals they have helped train play in delivering high‑quality primary eye care and supporting communities.

Dispensing opticians are trained eye care professionals who turn prescriptions into tailored, high-quality visual solutions and eyewear, and help support ongoing eye health.

ABDO, the professional body for dispensing opticians, is visiting local opticians across the country during 2026 to mark 100 years of the profession.

The store has had two members of the team receive ABDO qualifications in the past 18 months – Freddie Bond, who completed the contact lens optician course, and Tom Bird, who finished the dispensing optician course.

Freddie says: ‘It means a great deal to have the role of dispensing opticians recognised, particularly during this milestone anniversary year for the profession.’

Tom said: ‘When I did the dispensing optician’s course, ABDO were very supportive throughout, preparing us to be confident in our role as dispensing opticians. ABDO also deserves credit for helping dispensing opticians become more recognised in their role.’

Deborah Bill, ABDO vice president, said: ‘Our centenary year is about celebrating dispensing opticians and the essential role they play in primary eye care. Visiting practices like Teignmouth brings that to life.

‘Dispensing opticians are at the heart of community eyecare, combining clinical expertise with a strong focus on patient needs. It’s a pleasure to recognise the professionalism and dedication shown by teams like this as part of our 100‑year celebrations.’

Sam Roberts, a director at Specsavers Teignmouth, says she’s proud of the way Tom and Freddie have developed since receiving their qualifications.

She adds: ‘Dispensing opticians play a fundamental role in delivering excellent patient care and positive clinical outcomes.

‘Celebrating 100 years of the profession is an opportunity to recognise the expertise, commitment and impact of dispensing opticians across community practice.’