The mayor of Stevenage was on hand to help an opticians celebrate 20 years in the heart of the town centre.

Councillor Margaret Notley cut a ribbon during a grand reopening at Boots Opticians in Queensway.

Rita Khagram, who took over the site in 2006, said they were honoured to have the mayor there with them for the happy occasion.

Rita said: “It’s a pleasure to be part of the Stevenage community, and we look forward to many more years.”

The opticians do good work raising awareness in schools of the importance of having sight-impairing conditions detected early, and the dangers of harmful UV and sun damage to the eyes of both young and old.

They also have a free digital storybook parents can use to check their youngsters’ eyesight.

The store has donated to each of the mayor’s charities – Carers in Hertfordshire, Stevenage District Scouts and Tracks Autism.

Rita added: “We welcome all staff for free sight tests and special discounts for the amazing work they do for the three charities.”