Ashton McLachlan – Optical Assistant

Hi I’m Ashton

I’ve been with Philip Jones for 4 and a half years, but I have over 12 year’s experience working within customer services. You will see me available on the shop floor and during eye screening but I also spend my time working behind the scenes.

I work here part-time whilst looking after my young daughter, Orla, and growing the next edition to my family (due September!).

I love working for PJO as we are allowed the time and resources to deliver the best possible eyecare to each one of our patients.

Abbie Bassinder – Optical Assistant

Hello, I’m Abbie, one of the reception and optical assistant team members  at Philip Jones Opticians. I started my career here in June 2019 after being a patient of Mr. Jones’s for many years.

Working at Philip Jones Opticians has opened many doors for me, and I have had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people. I know many of our patients feel comfortable and relaxed whilst they are in the practice, so much so, they often pop in as they walk by to say hello and have a chat.

I really enjoy my role and could not wish for better colleagues to work with. You, as patients are at the heart of what we do. Nothing is ever too much to ask and I enjoy finding little ways to make your experience that little bit better.

I look forward to seeing you soon and will welcome you with a big smile and a cup of tea.

Margaret Spence – Dispensing Optician

Hello I’m Margaret, one of the  Dispensing Opticians. I have been with the practice about 3 years, but my career in optics includes working in glazing laboratories and as a Dispensing Manager, homing my skills as a mentor and trouble shooter. A change of scene prompted a new start covering independent practices throughout the region where I fell in love with the art of optics again; using a range of the latest technology lenses, finding a passion for quality, colourful, fashionable frames.

I can be classed as chatty, even nosey some may say. That’s not just my country girl personality, it’s gathering clues so I can find best spectacle option for you, be it one or more pairs .
There’s not a better feeling than when it all comes together and I can see that warm glow! You put your spectacles on – they feel comfortable, you look in the mirror, you look great and how do you know?  Because you can see fantastically.

So my message to you is if you see any funky frames on your travels be it Paris or Milan, take a picture and bring it in! Since we are a truly independent optician we can see if we can source the perfect frame for you.

Emily Paterson – Optometrist

Hi. I’m Emily Paterson. I have been qualified as an Optometrist for 14 years and have been working part-time at Philip Jones Opticians for the last 3 1/2 years.

I pride myself in providing a very comprehensive eye test but in a friendly manner. I aim to put you at ease and thoroughly check the health of your eyes, your prescription and then to clearly explain the results and answer any questions you may have. I am passionate about providing high quality eye care. I enjoy my job and the variety it provides. I love meeting different people every day with the challenges they may present with.

Away from the practice I enjoy family life with my husband and 2 children. I love to spend time with family and friends and keep busy and active, especially outdoors. I am also happy with a cup of tea and a book in my hand.

Joan Dugan – Optical Assistant

Hi, my name’s Joan and I’m one of the Optical Assistants here at Philip Jones Opticians in Carnforth.

Married with two children, I’ve been in optics for nearly 30 years now, with the last 3 years being here with Phil and his amazing team. As a people person I enjoy meeting and greeting our customers when you come in to practice and taking your calls on reception. From conducting your pre-examination before your sight test, to helping you with your frame styling, lens options, adjusting your glasses or repairing them, I want you to  have a wonderful experience with us, offering you a personable friendly service.

If glasses aren’t your thing, ask me about contact lenses. Whether it be for full time use, sports or social occasions, they are now more wearable than ever.

So, the next time you are passing, call in and say hello.

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Brittany Newton – Pre-Registration Optometrist

Hi, my name is Brittany and I am the Pre-Registration Optometrist here at Philip Jones Opticians. I began my journey with Philip Jones Opticians in August 2019 when I was warmly welcomed by the wonderful team after I graduated from the University of Manchester in July.

During my pre-registration year I am lucky to be supervised by Phil Jones himself, learning from someone so passionate and knowledgeable to be able to provide all our patients with the best possible eye care you deserve.  I also enjoy getting the opportunity, supported by expert dispensing opticians, to help you select the perfect frame from the wide range we have available.

I am looking forward to my future with Philip Jones Opticians and to building strong relationships with our patients.  I hope to continue learning so I can uphold the high standards which have been set by Philip Jones Opticians for so many years. I can’t wait to meet you all!

Leslie Shawyer

Hello,

My name is Lesley and I work part time for Philip Jones Opticians, normally behind the scenes.

When not at work I look after my grandchildren and ever-expanding flock of animals.

So when your horse stands on your glasses, the dog chews them, you lose them feeding the lambs at midnight or your children/grandchildren snap the side off your frame, rest assured I, will understand and chances are that over the years it  has happened to me!

Tony Flynn – Optical Assistant

Hi, my name is Tony Flynn. I have been married for 45 years and I’m father to 3, and grandfather to 3, plus one due anytime now!  I have several hobbies including crown green bowls, cycling, fishing and particularly walking in our beautiful countryside. One of my life time ambitions was to visit Peru and trek Machu Picchu, which I achieved with my daughter some 12 years ago.

I started my optical career straight from school aged 15 years.  I took a 5 year apprenticeship to become an Optical Technician which gave me a City and Guilds qualification.

At the age of 21, I began a three year day-release course at Bradford University to become a Dispensing Optician. I have worked all over the north-west at several different companies.

My career has spanned some fifty years and have seen many changes in the way eyes are tested and spectacles are made.

I retired from full time practice some four years ago. I came to work at Philip Jones Optician as a Optical Assistant shortly after my retirement.  I really enjoy my work at this great friendly family run practice.

Jennifer Woolfall

Hi, I’m Jen

After being in optics for 18 years I jumped at the opportunity to join Philip and the team in October 2018 when returning to work after having my 2nd child, and I haven’t looked back.

I’m known for my warm and friendly personality and am always happy to help. If it comes to frame selection and you don’t know where to start, I’m here to advise, and am passionate about finding the perfect frame for you.

Qualifying as a Dispensing Optician in 2011 has given me the knowledge and skills to offer the best lens options to fulfil your visual needs.

So if you want your glasses to give you clarity and confidence, drop by and say hi.

Melissa Holden
Dispensing Optician/Company Secretary

Hello I’m Melissa

In 2002 I set up the practice with Philip – he’s the clinical expert and my background is in business. However, I soon realised that I wanted to be able to give you the best advice on lenses and frames, so I spent three years qualifying as a Dispensing Optician.

I love that as independent opticians we can offer you exciting frames from designers who make exclusively for independents, along with technologically innovative lenses meaning you leave looking and feeling fantastic. BUT if for any reason you don’t, then I’m the person you need to speak to, and I will do everything I can to make sure that your experience with PJO is one you will rave about to your friends.

Philip Jones – Practice Owner

Hi, I’m Phil Jones, one of the practice owners. I’ve been an optometrist for over 30 years. I’m always learning and improving my skills; in 2018 I was the first optometrist in Morecambe Bay to qualify as an Independent Prescriber. This means that you can be prescribed medicines to treat a range of eye diseases that would normally have to be done by your GP or eye doctor.

More recently I was awarded the Professional Certificate in Medical Retina, giving me more insight into conditions such as macula degeneration and diabetes in the eye.

Outside of work I have an interest in photography and film-making, particularly time-lapse photography. I’m also a member of the Cloud Appreciation Society so most of my films have clouds within them to some degree!