AN independent opticians has expanded its services to allow patients to book routine eye tests for the first time since they were suspended in March.

Following new guidance from NHS England, Wendy Diddams Optometrist on Minshull Street, Knutsford, is accepting patients who have noticed a change in their vision for consultations with their Optometrist.

Customers will now be able to purchase glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses in the practice, as well as complimentary-style consultations with practice team members.

The practice is also extending its hours to accommodate patients, offering appointments from 8am to 7pm on weekdays and 8am to 5pm on Saturdays.

Extra measures have been put in place to guarantee a safe environment at Wendy Diddams, as all team members are equipped with full PPE, social distancing procedures are in place and touchpoints and frames are sanitised regularly after each use.

Although now reopening for routine appointments, the opticians has been working throughout the lockdown to support the community.

This has included conducting emergency eye appointments, delivering glasses to the door of vulnerable patients self-isolating, and updating their website to allow customers to purchase glasses and sunglasses online.

The opticians is not currently accepting walk-ins to the practice, and all patients are urged to call the practice to book their appointment prior to visiting.

Optometrist Wendy Diddams said: “There will be changes in practice, from social distancing to PPE, but these are in place to keep us all safe, as the health of our patients and team members will always be our priority.

“What will remain is our commitment to offering patients the same top-quality care they are used to, and as we are able to spend much longer with patients it means we can give you an even more personalised service.

“We would ask patients to come into practice wearing a face mask, but we are more than happy to provide you one on arrival, should you need it.

“It’s been a pleasure to continue to serve the community throughout the lockdown, and we’re very much looking forward to seeing the friendly faces of our patients once again.”

To contact the practice or to book an appointment call 01565 651121.