TWO local optical staff have celebrated reaching milestone anniversaries at Specsavers Haverfordwest.

Angharad Bowie, 27, and Chris Rosser, 51, have a total of 25 years’ service between them.

Ms Bowie, from Haverfordwest, started working at the store as a Saturday girl when she was just 16. She went on to study optometry at Plymouth University and, after graduating, returned to Haverfordwest and took up a full-time position at the Bridge Street store.

She says: “I can’t imagine working anywhere else. When I finished university, I knew I wanted to come back home because the Specsavers team are like family - they watched me grow up.

“Our directors, Andy and Paul, have been so supportive, and that didn’t stop while I was at uni. They’re both so driven and they encourage everyone to take qualifications – they are big on staff development.”

Ms Bowie is currently working towards an Independent Prescribing qualification and when she qualifies, will be joining colleagues Owain Jones and Andy Britton who are already qualified and provide Independent Prescribing services, which helps reduce the number of GP referrals.

Mr Rosser, an optical assistant also from Haverfordwest, is celebrating his 15^th year with the business. He is mostly responsible for indoor merchandise and frames but is also trained to provide a pre-screening service and advise customers with frame and spectacle lens selection.

He says: “Over the years, I have seen the business grow from strength to strength – the store is constantly investing in new tech and the best staff to ensure we’re delivering the best service possible.”

The pair received a certificate and small gift to mark the special occasion.

To find out more information about Specsavers Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.