AFTER 42 years of caring for the eyes of Petersfield residents at Morgan-Owen & Coates Optometrists, optometrist Irena Morgan-Owen has retired.

Irena moved to Petersfield in 1981 to work for Phillips and Edgworth Opticians in Lavant Street and later took over the practice, building a caring, ethical business with vast optical expertise.

On retiring, Irena said: “It has been a privilege to get to know so many people and to be able to help them to see as well as possible.”

Graham Coates, fellow optometrist and business partner, presented Irena with flowers and gifts from all the staff.

Although it may be the conclusion of Irena’s working life, it is not the end of the optometry practice in Lavant Street.

Graham is joined by his new business partner, local optometrist Abi Grute. Many people will know Abi from the Sheet and Tilmore Allotment Association and from her time as resident optometrist at Arnolds Opticians for a number of years.

Graham and Abi are looking forward to continuing the friendly and professional care the practice is renowned for, while using their combined 60 years of optical experience to bring exciting developments to benefit new and existing customers.