Great night out at the finalists party

I have to admit to being shocked at the response to the first pre-event drinks reception for the Optician Awards.

About 120 people signed up to come to the event at The Carbon Bar in the West End of London. There were just two no shows, and a few extras, a fantastic feat given the issues that crop up in everyone's busy lives these days.

After a brief welcome from Editor Chris Bennett the room spent a good four hours drinking and chatting the night away. I would like to say a big thank you to all of those attendees who Tweeted and emailed their gratitude.