Business Details
Your Trusted Opticians in Ashford
Brownbills Optometrists has been providing expert eye care services in Ashford for over a century, establishing itself as a trusted family-owned practice. Our team of experienced optometrists and dispensing opticians combines advanced technology with personalized care to address diverse visual needs. We prioritise clinical excellence, investing in cutting-edge equipment like Optical Coherence Tomography and Optomap imaging to ensure comprehensive eye health assessments. Recognised with the Practice Team of the Year award at the SightCare Conference, we maintain strong community ties through initiatives like the Community Glaucoma Network and accessible care programs.Our commitment to continuous professional development ensures patients receive the latest advancements in myopia management, low vision support, and contact lens solutions. The practice's Victorian premises reflect our dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all patients, evidenced by our Gold award from the Ashford Access Group. With multiple generations of family involvement, including directors Dr Huw Pinney and Helen Pinney, we blend tradition with innovation to deliver exceptional eyecare services tailored to individual lifestyles.
Services
Eye Examinations
Contact Lenses
Hearing Care
Children's Eyecare
Low Vision Clinics
Myopia Management
Glaucoma Screening
Spectacle Dispensing
Dry Eye Treatment
Visual Stress Assessment
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years serving Ashford's eyecare needs
- Award-winning team with specialist accreditations
- Investment in advanced diagnostic technologies
- Community-focused approach with accessibility awards
- Multi-generational family involvement in practice
What people say
Excellent friendly service
Faultless professional service
Super friendly staff
Knowledgeable service
Thorough examinations
Services
Eye Examinations
Our comprehensive eye examinations utilise advanced technology including DNEye Scanners and Optomap imaging to assess visual acuity and eye health. The process involves detailed medical history review, visual field testing, and intraocular pressure measurement. Patients receive expert analysis of retinal structures using Optical Coherence Tomography, with findings explained in clear terms to ensure informed decisions about eyecare needs.
Contact Lenses
We offer specialist contact lens fittings for all vision requirements, including rigid gas permeable and soft lens options. Our accredited optometrists provide training in safe application and removal techniques, with ongoing support for lens maintenance. The practice participates in the ACUVUE recycling programme and offers orthokeratology solutions for overnight vision correction of myopia.
Myopia Management
Our specialist myopia management programme utilises evidence-based approaches to slow progression of short-sightedness in children. This includes orthokeratology lenses and multifocal contact lens solutions, supported by regular monitoring using advanced corneal topography equipment. The service is delivered by optometrists with specific postgraduate accreditations in paediatric vision care.
Low Vision Clinics
Tailored low vision assessments focus on maximising remaining vision through specialist optical devices and adaptive techniques. The clinic provides magnification solutions, lighting recommendations, and referral pathways to additional support services. Patients receive personalised training in using assistive technologies to maintain independence.
Dry Eye Treatment
Our dry eye clinic employs advanced diagnostic tools like tear film analysis and meibography to identify underlying causes. Treatment plans may include lid hygiene regimes, prescription eye drops, and thermal pulsation therapy. The service incorporates environmental advice and lifestyle modifications to address both symptoms and root causes of ocular surface disease.
People
Dr Huw Pinney
Director & Lead Optometrist
Qualified with BSc in Optometry (1984) and PhD in Visual Science (1992). Owner since 1994, active in Local Optical Committee and Primary Eye Care pathways development. Specialises in post-operative cataract care and accredited MECS/CNG examinations.
Helen Pinney
Director & Practice Manager
BSc Optometry graduate (1987) with extensive practice management experience. Co-owner since 1994, Mental Health First Aider, and active member of SightCare Business Group. Oversees daily operations and patient care standards.
Gillian Stepek
Optometrist
First Class graduate from Glasgow Caledonian University (2021) with specialist interests in paediatric optometry and low vision. Holds MECS accreditation and myopia management qualifications. Actively mentors pre-registration optometry students through STEP program.
Akemi Collier-Hutchins
Dispensing Optician
Qualified ABDO Dispensing Optician (2018) with specialist focus on myopia control and accessible care. Professional member of Macular Society, bringing NHS ophthalmology experience to patient consultations and lens selection.
Hannah Pinney-Thomson
Business Development Associate
Science & Medicine History graduate (2015) with expertise in digital marketing and business development. Combines choral career with practice promotion, managing social media and educational content creation.
Questions
What eye care services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive eye examinations, contact lens fittings, myopia management, glaucoma screening, low vision clinics, dry eye treatment, and specialist visual stress assessments using advanced diagnostic technology.
How can I book an appointment?
Book via our website, by calling 01233 625360, or visit our practice at Cecil House, Norwood Street, Ashford TN23 1QT during opening hours.
Do you accept NHS eye tests?
Yes, we offer NHS-comprehensive eye examinations with options to upgrade to enhanced diagnostic imaging for additional fees.
What hearing care services are available?
Through our partnership with The Hearing Care Partnership, we offer full hearing assessments, wax removal, hearing aid reviews, and custom protection solutions.
Are there accessibility features at your practice?
Our Victorian premises have been adapted for accessibility, earning a Gold award from the Ashford Access Group, with level access and specialist equipment available.
