New directors for Shaw Eyecare

An independent practice in Cumnock, Scotland, is set for new leadership as the owners of the family-run business retire and handover to three new partners.

Shaw Eyecare, originally established by James Shaw in 1970, has been run for many years by the founder’s sons, Stewart and Russell.

Having semi-retired in 2023, the brothers plan to retire fully, with new partners, Alistair Duff, Peter Telfer, and Linda Dempsey, stepping in to lead the practice.

The Shaw brothers said of the transition: “We are incredibly grateful to our patients for their loyalty over the years. Serving the communities of Cumnock, Mauchline, Sanquhar, Thornhill and beyond has been a privilege, and we want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported us through the decades.”

For Alistair Duff, the role marks a full-circle moment, as he began his career in optics with a Saturday position at the practice, returning to complete his pre-registration there. Duff then went on to work with Urquhart Opticians.

He said: “We’re honoured to take on the care of a practice with such a proud history and we hope to build in the excellent foundations laid by the Shaw family by continuing to deliver high-quality personal eye care that meets the needs of our patients today and in the future.”

Peter Telfer also has ties to the community, having attended school minutes away from the practice and playing football in Cumnock.

Linda Dempsey, an independent prescribing optometrist and clinical director for the practice, lives locally and brings more than 17 years of experience in the optical industry to the role.

The new directors will be supported by the practice team, with many having been with the practice for more than a decade. Optometrists Alan Beck, Rebecca Hamilton, and Jack Reilly, will continue to provide care.

Optical assistants Lindsey Smith, Karen Ballentyne, Karen Thomson, Carol Malone, and Joyce Gavin, will all remain as familiar faces to patients, with Colin Bell continuing as the practice’s lab technician.

Practice manager, Sarah Walker, has been with Shaw Eyecare for the past year, and has more than 16 years of experience in optics.

The practice will be joined by optometrist Kirsten Barclay and optical assistant Jennifer Clift, who both live locally and share the practice ethos.