The winners of the AOP Awards 2017 were revealed in front of more than 250 guests at a ceremony in London on Sunday night (5 February).
Held at the ExCeL Exhibition Centre during 100% Optical, the awards were sponsored by Alcon Academy for Eyecare Excellence and hosted by comedian Holly Walsh.
The recipient of this year’s special Lifetime Achievement Award was optometrist Bob Chappell.
With a career spanning more than 50 years in optics, Mr Chappell received the accolade in recognition of the ‘pivotal role he has played in driving the profession forward in a wide range of areas in UK, Europe and globally.’
On accepting the award, Mr Chappell said he was honoured, adding: “It feels absolutely amazing. It was a real surprise and when I learned the news, I was absolutely delighted.”
Other winners on the night were Wolverhampton optometrist Prabhjit Boparai, who was named Optometrist of the Year, Suresh Munyal who scooped Contact Lens Practitioner of the Year, and Sophie Johnson, who won Dispensing Optician on the Year.
On learning she had won Optometrist of the Year, Ms Boparai said: “I am elated. Winning means my years of hard work and passion have been recognised.”
Cambridge-based Taank Optometrists received the Practice of the Year accolade, while Lunettes Opticians was named Young Practice of the Year.
On accepting the award, optometrist and owner of Lunettes Opticians, Tushar Majithia, said: “We’re absolutely over the moon to win – it demonstrates that with determination, a rural practice can achieve the same high standards as one in a big city.”
Speaking about the awards, chief executive of the AOP, Henrietta Alderman, commented: “The AOP Awards give us the opportunity to celebrate those who have given so much to the public and the profession. Our 2017 finalists have demonstrated some extraordinary achievements. I would like to congratulate all of them and especially the winners on their commitment and passion.”
More information on all winners can be found on the AOP’s website.