SHANKLIN optometrist Hazel Smith has retired after more than three decades of service to the local community.

She opened Hazel Smith Opticians in December 1982 and has served several generations of patients as the proud owner and optometrist of the independent practice on High Street.

The team Hazel has fostered over the decades paid tribute to her work, while looking ahead to the future of the practice.

Manager Andy Fletcher said: “I’m sure I speak for my fellow staff members, as well as the long list of customers that Hazel has served over the decades, when we wish her the best of luck in her retirement.

“Her focus has always been on creating a business that is an integral part of the local community and she has certainly achieved that.

“Through Hazel’s guidance, we’ve created a fantastic team that will continue the high standard of care that she has instilled in the practice over the years.”

Although Hazel is departing, the team’s core staff remain, including resident optometrist Jasmine Yeo.

Ebrahim Jeewa, a dispensing optician and optometrist with more than 25 years’ experience, has joined the practice as a new optometrist and Hazel has given her support to the team and the new appointment.

She said: “I’ve no doubt Andy, Jasmine and the team are fully committed to maintaining the high level of optometry that we have continued to deliver as one of the IW’s finest practices.

“Ebrahim is an optometrist with a wealth of knowledge so he can only add to the team’s expertise.

“This practice could not have achieved the successes of the past few decades without our wonderful and loyal patients, so I’d like to thank all of them, as well as my team members, for their support throughout my career in optometry.”

Don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.