A Newton Aycliffe opticians beat the challenge of more than 500 stores to be named as Specsavers' top outlet.
The eye-care chain launched a search for the store in its group which had the best customer service.
Mystery shoppers were sent to Specsavers opticians across the country and observed staff at Newton Aycliffe several times.
They were judged on how much attention they paid to customers during eye tests, and other criteria, such as the appearance of the store and the staff themselves.
The store, in Beveridge Way, topped the chain's nat- ional poll ahead of 568 other stores, and the accolade was made even more special as the shop has only been open for 18 months.
Store director Fiona Curtis said: "We have not been up and running very long but our number one priority has always been quality of service and we are delighted to be recognised for it so quickly."
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