Observatory the Opticians, based in Exchange Square in Beccles, has been shortlisted for the Independent Practice of the Year title at the Opticians Awards.

The practice, which employs a staff of seven, is one of five finalists, with the winner to be named at a ceremony in London on April 12.

A key aspect to be taken into consideration by the judges is the level of customer satisfaction and individualised eye care that is provided to patients. The judging panel will also look at the quality and diversity of the optical products offered as well as feedback from the practice’s clients and its ability to offer something “a little different” from than the competition.

Jonathan Foreman, owner and managing director, said: “It’s brilliant that a small country practice like ours in Beccles can achieve the success of being shortlisted against the big city practices. We’re very happy that this is happening in our local area.”

Mr Foreman, who lives at Wenhaston, near Halesworth, added: “We have a professional group of skilled staff that work hard to provide customers with individualised eye care and a wide variety of products, along with competitive pricing, and, for us, these are all minimum required standards for any independent practice. Our customer service is what sets us apart from other practices.

“We take time to get to know our patients, and through regular contact and genuine care, we build strong relationships with them.

“We pride ourselves on leaving our customers feeling valued, impressed and confident in our service. At this practice we are not looking for one-off sales, we want to build a better foundation for our business that ensures its continued long-term success.”