A LOYAL customer was the focus of attention when she was chosen to officially open a Halesowen opticians.

Kathleen Austin, aged 80, performed the honours at Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, which has moved to Hagley Mall in the Cornbow Shopping Centre.

The retired nurse, who has been a customer with the opticians for two decades, was given flowers and the team shared a cake with her to celebrate her 81st birthday this month.

Halesowen News: Kathleen Austin and branch manager Dee Wilkes Kathleen Austin and branch manager Dee Wilkes (Image: Handout)

Branch Manager Dee Wilkes said: “Our new, relocated store looks fantastic and we wanted to mark its opening in style.

"Kathleen’s entrusted us with her eye and hearing care for over 21 years and also pops in most weeks for a chat with the team.”

Kathleen, who has lived in Halesowen for more than 40 years, said: “The entire team at Scrivens is excellent and that’s why I’ve been a customer for so long.

"They’re all lovely and make me feel very welcome when I have an appointment or when I pop in to say hello during my weekly shopping visit to the town centre.

“I felt very honoured to be chosen by the team to officially open the newly relocated branch.

"It was a wonderful surprise!”

Scrivens has relocated from a smaller unit within the Cornbow Shopping Centre.

The new branch features the latest digital eye examination equipment and an additional testing room, with all facilities now at ground level.

Customers can also choose from an updated range of frames, including a larger selection of the latest designer names.

Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care is a family run business which was established in 1938. It has 169 stores in England and Wales, with 1,000 employees.