Member Article

Local eye expert goes back to his roots

Phil Banton, senior optometrist in Firth Park, reflects on nearly two decades of changes to the industry and on his return to Specsavers

Phil qualified with a BSC (Hons) in Optometry from the University of Bradford in 1999 and the following year he qualified as an optometrist with Specsavers. He made the move to Firth Park Eyecare on Bellhouse Road, Firth Park where he built up a strong rapport with the area’s residents.

With over a decade and a half of experience in the Firth Park area, Phil has unparalleled experience caring for the local residents. Moving back to Specsavers Firth Park, he brings with him extensive knowledge of the community and is a welcome addition to the store’s team.

Phil comments: ‘I started my career in optometry as I wanted to help people and over the years I have been able to do this every day. It’s great to see how much optometry has changed since I started in the profession nearly two decades ago. The scope of optometry is expanding and we are now able to treat a range of eye conditions in the community without the need to visit your GP or the hospital. As well as that being a lot more convenient for customers, it also reduces a lot of burden on the NHS too.

‘Whilst Specsavers has been synonymous with eye-care for years, it’s amazing to see how high tech the in-store equipment has become and the range of ailments we can spot and treat.

Phil concludes: ‘I’m delighted to be returning to Specsavers Firth Park and once again caring for the patients in the area that I’ve come to know very well.’

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