It is about a year since we became a totally independent business. I love the freedom to do things the way we think is right. We treat our customers how we want to be treated when we are consumers. Most of our custom comes from recommendation. We hand pick all our own stock and wear it too (not sure about this model though!).

Working on clinical & communication skills module at Bradford University on Fridays helps me keep up to date too. It also gives me the opportunity to quietly (and politely) point out that there is an alternative to working in a multiple manged by excel by someone thousands of miles away.

Get some specs and get a free refillable/reusable lens spray (organic too!). Bring it back, get a refill, have a chat. Bring it back, get a refill, have a chat ….

When we first had the idea of a refillable bottle for lens cleaning spray we were not sure what was the best thing to do - glass or aluminium container maybe? So, we asked Professor Tony Ryan, director of Sheffield University's Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures for advice. From a Life Cycle Analysis perspective he suggested we should use a robust PET bottle and make sure the labelling was very clear about it being reusable and refillable (Read about PET on Wrap's website here). In addition we have being putting customer name labels on the bottles too - thinking that we are much less likely to throw away something with our name on it!

Simple message really - don’t wear your contact lenses when you are swimming, in the shower or in a jacuzzi. We know it is tempting, but it is not worth the risk. Don’t expose them to water in your lens case and ensure you dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses.

Am amazing woman called Irenie Ekkeshis has done great work raising awareness after getting the infection a few years ago. She has had years of awful treatments and lost sight. I saw her present with a Professor from Moorfields and since then I have been inspired to play my part in putting across the message. See here for more on her.

I love outdoor swimming and did wear my lenses in the past, but never do now. I wear £25 prescription googles and they are great. Feel free to contact us and we will order some for you to try out.

A BBC story here on Irenie too