A well-known and widely respected opticians in Bothwell has welcomed new Directors following the retirement of its previous owner and founder.
Mackie Opticians, founded by husband-and-wife duo Dr Scott Mackie and Dr Roisin Mackie in 1995, has long been a highly regarded independent optical practice within the community. Building strong relationships with patients over the years, the team have garnered a reputation for providing high standards of eye care that go beyond the standard eye test.
Following Scott’s retirement in July, the practice has entered a new chapter under the leadership of experienced optometrist Neil Gray, Clinical Director Alistair Duff, and Managing Director Peter Telfer.
Neil, Alistair, and Peter bring a wealth of experience to the team. As Directors and optometrists within fellow independent, Urquhart Opticians, which has practices across the west coast of Scotland, the team are well versed in upholding high standards of clinical excellence and carry a breadth of knowledge and expertise.
Neil has worked in optics for 17 years, moving into the independent sector in 2019 when he joined Urquhart Opticians. Since then, he has completed a multitude of specialist qualifications including independent prescribing, diabetic screening, and myopia management, developing a particular interest in the use of technology and AI to support advanced levels of clinical care.
Along with longstanding connections to the local area, his appointment also marks a full-circle moment in his optometry journey, having previously been assessed by Scott during his pre-registration examinations at the start of his career.
Neil said: “It’s a real privilege to take on the care of Mackie Opticians from someone as well-known and respected within the optical profession as Scott.
“Bothwell and the surrounding area are places I know well, and I’m really looking forward to becoming more involved in the community. Myself, Alistair, and Peter share many of the same values as Scott and Roisin, and we’re committed to preserving the independent, personal approach that patients have come to know and trust.”
Also joining the team is Alistair Duff, who has been the Clinical Director at Urquhart Opticians since 2015 and brings significant experience from across the profession through extensive work alongside Optometry Scotland and as the Chair of the Area Optical Professional Committee.
Similarly, Managing Director Peter Telfer will support the ongoing development of the practice’s team and services. Peter has built strong ties within communities across Scotland, including the Ayrshire business community, chairing the Kilmarnock Business Association, and sitting on the Board of the Ayrshire Chamber.
The new Directors are committed to building on the strong foundations established by Scott over the years, while continuing to develop the services and expertise available to patients in Bothwell.
While the duo have officially handed over the reins, Roisin will remain part of the team and continue to see patients at the practice on a part-time locum basis, and Scott, despite taking a step back, will continue to have a presence within the optical community through consultancy work.
Scott and Roisin have played a significant role within Scottish optometry throughout their careers, co-founding the Scottish Optical Conference and remaining a key force behind the progression of the optical industry.
The new team of Directors at Mackie Opticians looks forward to continuing the practice’s long-standing commitment to independent eye care and supporting its patients across Bothwell and the surrounding communities.
To find out more about Mackie Opticians or to book an appointment, please visit www.mackieopticians.co.uk.
