Meet The Team

Michael opened the practice in Kingston Park in September 1981. Michael’s eagerness to learn and develop has resulted in numerous additional qualifications, which includes a Masters degree in Clinical Optometry, Independent prescribing, Glaucoma and myopia management. His work at the RVI Eye department has broadened his experience as well as keeping him up to date with advances in eyecare. His generous and kind nature has cemented him in the hearts of the local community. Michael is passionate about helping others to develop to be the best versions of themselves, which is reflected in the team at the practice. In his spare time, he enjoys walking, cycling and generally keeping fit.

Sam began her journey within the practice in 2011 as an Optical Assistant, progressing to Practice Manager in 2018. Sam is passionate about team development and helping others reach their potential. She is pivotal in the day to day running of the practice behind the scenes. She has recently found a new interest in martial arts.

Alex started working in the practice 2005. Her role has changed significantly, progressing from Saturday person to Dispensing Optician, to Optometrist. Alex has a particular interest in myopia management and children’s eyecare after becoming a parent herself, she has recently completed a Diploma in myopia management with Glasgow Caledonian University. Alex enjoys a good book on a sunny holiday with the family. 

Deborah has been with the practice since completing her University degree in 2008. Deborah completed her Independent Prescribing qualification in 2016.  This additional knowledge allows her to manage more complex eye conditions without the need for referring to eye casualty. Deborah also spent a few years working part time at the RVI in Newcastle including in eye casualty which she found an interesting experience and uses this knowledge to further improve the care she gives to patients. In 2024, Deborah completed a myopia management qualification to further her expertise in this area. Deborah is very caring, encouraging and loves solving problems for patients. Out of work she enjoys spending time with her family including 2 young boys who keep her on her toes! 

Hannah qualified as an Optometrist in 2017 with a Masters degree from the University of Manchester. She started working at the practice in 2019 alongside her job working at the Eye Department at the RVI. Hannah completed her Independent Prescribing qualification from the Glasgow Caledonian University in 2021. Hannah has also done courses in myopia management for children, which is an area she has a lot of interest in. As an Ortho-K contact lens wearer herself, she finds these lenses suit her active lifestyle. Outside of work, Hannah enjoys travelling to new places and she also has fostered cats for Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter.

Laura joined our team of Optometrists in 2022, her positive and joyful personality has been a great addition to the team. Laura is very passionate about helping others, her compassionate and empathetic nature applies seamlessly within her role as an Optometrist. Laura enjoys walks, good movies, and crisps!

Vikki joined us in 2012, after graduating from university with a First Class Honours degree in History. She began her training as a Dispensing Optician a year later. Vikki qualified in 2016, again gaining a First in her Ophthalmic Dispensing degree and achieving the highest marks in her year in the final examinations. Vikki completed her dissertation on the subject of myopia control in children. In her spare time, Vikki enjoys reading and travelling, and has an interest in music.

Kiri brought a wealth of experience with her to the practice when joining in 2021. Kiri understands the importance of frame and lens choice as she has worn glasses since 4. Kiri is enthusiastic about educating parents and raising awareness for the treatments available for Myopia Management. As a contact lens wearer herself, she thrives on helping others learn how to handle and care for lenses, so more people can enjoy the freedom of clear vision without glasses. Kiri enjoys park runs and is an excellent baker and regularly brings in sweet treats for the team to enjoy. 

Caitlyn joined the practice 2022 and has since flourished in her role as Optical Assistant. Caitlyn has shown a great interest in social media and marketing and is very excited to develop in these areas. Her interest in art and design fits in fantastically with frame styling, making this one of her favourite parts of her role. She always has a positive ‘can do’ attitude to her day-to-day role, making her a great addition to the team. Caitlyn enjoys going to the gym, travelling and music.

Macey joined us as a Saturday person in 2022. We were delighted when Macey approached us with the idea of an apprenticeship. We were extremely proud when Macey completed her apprenticeship in 2023 with a Distinction. Her warm and friendly manner makes her incredibly approachable and easy to talk to. Macey is a social butterfly, enjoying time with friends and family outside of work.

Grace has been working with us part time since 2022. Grace is continuing to develop in her role as Optical Assistant, with a professional attitude and eagerness to learn all aspects of the patient journey. Grace and her twin sister, Hannah, also sing as the pop duo, Twayn. Back in 2022, they came second out of over 22,000 entries in the Liverpool International Songwriting Competition, ‘The road to Nashville’. The band have accumulated over 75,000 streams in 111 countries over the past year, and look forward to playing in local festivals this summer such as A Stone’s Throw and Coast Fest. 

Erin joined us in 2023, working with us on a Saturday as an Optical Assistant, whilst studying for her A-Levels, with a view to heading to University next year. Erin is bright and bubbly and has been a fantastic addition to the team. She enjoys spending time with her friends.