New independent picks up award

Just Spectacles in Bideford has been recognised as ‘New Business of the Year’ in North Devon by an independent panel of business and council leaders. Opening in May last year, the dispensing only practice has made quite an impression in the area.

‘This year the awards received stronger nominations than ever before. Retail business, especially in rural regions, is particularly tough. Just Spectacles is a great example of a brilliant business thriving in this environment,’ said Bill Martin, editor from the Mirror Group.

The award was presented to Andrew Bailey, owner of Just Spectacles, by radio and TV presenter Judi Spiers. ‘Since opening the business a year ago, the local support has been amazing and every day is a joy,’ said Bailey. ‘To quote the well-used saying…I should have done it years ago. In our online and supermarket biased world, customers are crying out for choice, price and a personalised service.’