Member Article

Kidderminster pair recognised for decades of work

Two Kidderminster locals have been hailed as pillars of the community in recognition of their hard work and unwavering dedication.

Mary Parmenter, 68, and Audrey Harborne, 67, work at CG Stephens Opticians, a KODAK Lens Vison Centre in Kidderminster. They have both reached the incredible landmark of over 60 years’ service combined.

In their time the pair have helped hundreds of patients choose the right glasses or lens, often going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure they received the best treatment.

Mary, who works as an optical assistant, puts her success down to building a friendship with her co-workers and patients.

She said: “We know our customers inside out. We have a real friendship with them all. There’s been people coming to our practice for more than 80 years.

“We see different generations, we know their birthdays, where they’ve been on holiday … it’s like one big family.”

One of the centre’s longest standing customers, Graham Howell, 83 from Kidderminster, today passed on his gratitude to the staff. He said: “I’ve been with the practice for over 70 years and they have been nothing but absolute professionals. Their perceptive and thorough care is of the highest standard that can’t be found anyone else. Whenever I have a question or there’s change in my prescription, they’re always there to help.”

Patients still come far and wide to visit the KODAK Lens Vision Centre. Audrey, who celebrated her 30th working anniversary this month, said: “We have customers who come from London to visit the store, even a couple from Norway who make the trip to see us once a year. It’s a great compliment to us.”

Outside of work, Mary and Audrey have become close friends, even living on the same road.

Mary added: “Working next to someone for over 30 years, you need to get on with each other. Luckily we have very similar interests.

“Often we find ourselves knowing what the other person is thinking. I think it comes with working with someone for so long!

“We really enjoy seeing everyone who comes through the door. It might sound like a cliché but 30 years really have flown by.”

Practice owner and optometrist at CG Stephens Opticians, Shilen Parikh, said: “The work both Mary and Audrey have done in the last 30 years is nothing short of remarkable. They have been the face of CG Stephens, welcoming customers and making them feel at home. Well done to both of them.”

CG Stephens Opticians is part of the KODAK Lens Vision Centre family. It is one of 120 partnered stores across the UK.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Henry Roberts .