The North East's '’oldest independent opticians" has celebrated its 100th anniversary.
S Walton Eyecare, formerly known as Sidney Walton Opticians, has been serving South Shields since 1926 and marked its centenary on July 15.
The business, founded by Sidney Walton and later run by Herbert Marsden from the 1950s, closed after Mr Marsden’s death in 2006.
The building was then purchased and relaunched by optometrist Kaye Winship, who rebranded the practice as S Walton Eyecare.
Ms Winship said: "I think what has really set us apart from other opticians in the area and has been key to our success is the fact that we really take the time to spend more time and to listen to our customers.
"Our eye tests typically take twice as long as our competitors, as we really take the time to go into detail with our customers and help solve their problems.
"We have also tried to build on the legacies of Sidney and Herbert by continuing to give back to the local community, assisting local charities in their work, and sponsoring local rugby teams and MMA champions.
"We also provide NHS eye tests to the homeless through our work with EMMAUS.
"We are incredibly proud to be a South Shields business with deep roots in the town.
"There’s nowhere else we’d rather be."
Under Ms Winship’s ownership, the business has modernised its services.
It now offers advanced eyecare not available on the NHS, such as OCT scanning, myopia control, and dry eye clinics, alongside hearing care, wax removal, and podiatry.
The practice also stocks designer eyewear from brands including Gucci, Tom Ford, and Ray-Ban, as well as the new Ray-Ban Meta AI intelligent eyewear.
The Mayor of South Tyneside Council, Cllr Stan Wildhirt, attended the event, along with representatives from Oakley, local businesses, and customers.
Ms Winship said: "It was fantastic having the Mayor of the Council and so many of our customers, partners and local businesses join us to celebrate the store’s 100th anniversary.
"We have certainly had our challenges over the years, like every high street retailer, however, the support from the people and businesses of Shields has never waned, so it was fitting that we were able to share this historic moment with them.
"Without the support of our amazing customers and the local business community over the years, this would never have been possible."
S Walton Eyecare has also signed the South Tyneside Pledge, joining more than 400 organisations in committing to boost the local economy, reduce health inequalities, and lower carbon emissions across the borough.
Ms Winship credited nearby business support schemes for the practice’s continued growth.
She said: "None of this would be possible had it not been for the support we’ve received from organisations such as South Tyneside Council and TEDCO over the years and getting involved in initiatives such as the South Tyneside Pledge.
"Over the last few years, we have secured a grant for a new website, received business coaching, and have attended events to help grow the business, all of which have been key to helping us continue moving forward.
"It’s lonely being a business owner at times, but the fantastic business support ecosystem we have here really brings us together and has hopefully helped ensure we can continue trading for another 100 years."
Cllr Wildhirt praised the business for its resilience.
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He said: "It was great to join Kaye and the team to mark the 100th anniversary of S. Walton Eyecare yesterday.
"At a time when high street businesses are really feeling the pinch, it is fantastic to see historic independent businesses like S Walton continuing to invest in their towns and providing such a crucial service for local people.
"The company is a true South Tyneside success story."
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