Award Winning Urquhart Opticians expands with two new practices

One of Scotland’s leading independent opticians has further expanded by adding two new practices to its growing portfolio.

Urquhart Opticians has taken over the former Knox Opticians in Strathaven and Eaglesham – bringing its total number of practices to 11. The move follows the retirement of Gill Cruickshank who, in a letter to patients, said: “Due to the pandemic, the past couple of years have been particularly challenging and I have decided that the time is now right for me to retire. Thank you for your years of loyalty and commitment, it has been greatly appreciated. I know you will be in good hands with the team going forward. Urquhart’s values are very much aligned to mine, with clinical care and community, being at the very heart of what they do. I am also delighted to confirm that my team members Lorna, Duncan, Ellen and Louise will be staying on with the business.”

Urquhart’s is a well-established, award-winning independent opticians based in Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway. Originally established in 1916, the business is continuing its expansion programme along the west coast of Scotland with a focus on market towns.

Managing director Peter Telfer said: “We’re excited to be expanding in Strathaven and Eaglesham and looking forward to getting to know the patients and becoming part of the community in both locations. Caring for our community is at the very heart of everything that we do and delivering the highest levels of clinical care is our priority. Our Care & Community Fund gives local charities and community groups the chance to apply for a share of up to £1,000 every other month.”

“We’ve previously donated to Ayrshire Hospice, an after-school club for children with additional needs and an indoor rock climbing centre so we’re open to any suggestions and our staff then vote for who should receive the funding. We’re looking forward to doing our bit to benefit the communities of Strathaven and Eaglesham.”

Urquhart Opticians was founded by Robert Urquhart in 1916, with the first practice in Dreghorn. Managing director Peter Telfer took over in 2015 alongside long-time friend and clinical director Alistair Duff. Both have gone on to become well-regarded thought leaders within the optometry sector while Peter chairs the Kilmarnock Business Association and sits on the Board of the Ayrshire Chamber.