About Us
Founded as J Saum & Co in the 19th century, we have been caring for our community's vision for generations. Our extensive experience in optometry allows us to provide expert eye care and personalised service, ensuring you receive the attention and support you deserve.
Our Story
We were originally founded back in the 19th century as J Saum & Co.
John and Barbara Smith became involved in 1975 when the business changed names to Smith and Schwarz Opticians. The next generation of Kevin and Lorraine is helping to take the business forward as Smith Family Opticians.
We opened our second practice in Ruthin in 1984, and in 2024 we moved to larger premises where we are today, across the road from our previous practice.
Employed Optometrists
Dispensing Optician
Contact Lens Optician
Alison Thomas.
FBDO 1992; FBDO (Hons) CL 2010. Contact Lens accredited Optician. Alison joined the team in 2008.
Alison also is WGOS 2 accredited to enable her to assess patients with certain acute eye conditions.
Practice Manager
Paula Holmes
Paula is the Practice Manager in Mold and has been a valuable member of the team since 1982.
Meet The Team
Aideen McAvinchey
BSc MCOptom, DipTp(IP), Prof Cert Med Ret
Aideen graduated from Cardiff University in 2006. Aideen joined the team in 2012.
Aideen also has additional qualifications in medical retina and independent prescribing, also enabling Aideen to be able to prescribe eye medication when needed.
Lorraine Roberts
FBDO
Lorraine joined the team in 1996 as a part time worker, qualified as a dispensing Optician at Bradford University in 2002 and became a director in 2009.
Kevin Smith
BSc MCOptom, DipTP(IP), Prof Cert Med Ret, Prof Cert Glauc
Kevin graduated from Cardiff University in 1999. Kevin joined the team in 2004 and became a director in 2009. Kevin has achieved additional qualifications in medical retina, glaucoma and independent prescribing. This means he can prescribe eye medicines when needed. Kevin is also currently a board member of Optometry Wales.
Helen Counsell
BSc MCOptom, Prof Cert Glauc, Prof Cert Med Ret
Helen graduated from Aston University in 1996. Helen joined the team in 2025.
Helen has additional qualifications in medical retina and glaucoma. Helen is currently studying to complete her independent prescribing qualification.
Want to know more?
Watch this short video below to learn a little bit more about our practices.
Contact Us
MOLD
Earlcliffe, Earl Road, MOLD, Flintshire. CH7 1AX.
Tel. 01352 753560
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
8:45am to 5:30pm
Saturday
9:00am to 1:00pm
Sunday
CLOSED
RUTHIN
39 Well Street, RUTHIN, Denbighshire. LL15 1AW.
Tel. 01824 704334
