The term optometrist came into use in 1987 to replace ophthalmic optician in the same way that pharmacist replaced chemist. An optician can be ophthalmic, dispensing or manufacturing; it is the optometrist who is qualified to test your eyes. Our dispensing opticians have additional qualifications. Lesley Oglethorpe has her Contact Lens Diploma which means she is able to fit and maintain contact lenses, Liz Stringer has additional qualifications in the Low Visual Aid field, as well as being a qualified orthoptist.

Any age really. A child's eyes have finished developing by the time they are about eight years old.

Many health authorities screen children in their area at around three years of age, but if you are concerned, or if there are any members of your family with eye problems, then it is best to have your child's eyes tested.

We recommend all children have their eyes examined before they start school.

It depends on who the patient is. A young, healthy person with no apparent problems will take about 20-30 minutes. Someone older, perhaps with high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma or other ailments can take much longer.

The optometrist will determine what clinical tests are needed to provide the correct information for new glasses or contact lenses. If necessary, they may refer the patient for a medical opinion.

No. When people wear the proper spectacles they realise they can see more clearly and comfortably. What they may have considered normal and acceptable before is now inferior by comparison.

If you have plastic lenses in your spectacles then dry tissues will scratch them. It is generally better to dampen the tissue, or use soapy water and a soft cloth.

If there is glaucoma in the family, you may be more at risk of developing it. Glaucoma can be treated effectively if it is diagnosed in time, so be sure to have a regular eye examination.

A cataract is when the lens inside the eye gets cloudy preventing you from seeing clearly. It is not a curtain or film that grows over the eye.

Cataracts develop to a greater or lesser extent in many people as they get older, but often do not affect people's eyesight severely, if at all.

Yes. Diabetes can cause severe problems with your sight. It is very important that your eyes are checked every year, preferably with drops to dilate the pupil, so that the retina (back of the eye) can be examined thoroughly.

There are many kinds of contact lenses available now which will correct astigmatism, both in soft and gas permeable materials. Your practitioner may be able to fit you or may recommend a colleague if it is a specialist fitting.

No, unless specifically told that you can by your eyecare practitioner. Sleeping in your lenses can be hazardous as it can lead to infection or damage to the cornea (front window of the eye).