The Petticrew family have been looking after eyes in Northern Ireland since 1887 – one of the longest established family practices in the UK.

Andrew says, “It is something a bit special for me, to have the opportunity to practice the uncompromising way I feel it should be done, in a family business which was started by my great-grandad. I am the luckiest man in the world. I jump out of bed in the morning and look forward to my work! Tragic really, isn’t it.”

Over 12,000 people in Northern Ireland have entrusted us with their eye care. We cherish the reputation and loyalty we have built over the past century and pride ourselves in having patients that live all over the world, from Albuquerque to Zimbabwe.

Andrew Petticrew BSc (Hons) MCOptom

Andrew Petticrew obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in optometry from City University and then went on to obtain his diploma in optometry from the College of Optometrists. His training included time in the ophthalmic department of the Lagan Valley Hospital and the orthoptic department at the Lisburn Health Centre as well as observing surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. He has worked in several private practices at all ends of the optical market which has given him a really balanced perspective. His work at Petticrew Optometrists has provided unique clinical experience in looking after the most complicated of eyes, with patients who often have two or three co-existing eye conditions. He is coming to the end of his appointment as President of the Northern Ireland Optometric Society which is responsible for continuing education and training of optometrists in Northern Ireland. He currently writes a column for one of the national optometric journals and lectures in the parentcraft department of the RVH.

Frank Petticrew FCOptom DipCLP

Frank Petticrew has been practicing optometry since 1957 and is one of the most highly repsected optometrists in Northern Ireland. He has had a particular interest in contact lenses, being involved in education all over the world including our very own University of Ulster. He has worked in several private practices as well as at the Royal Victoria Hospital. He is a past president of the Northern Ireland Optometric Society and has sat on various committees for organizations such as the Central Services Agency and the Association of Optometrists. He currently practises two half days per week and reads two professional journals per week, passing on the edited highlights to his son Andrew!  

Our Optical Assistants

Our optical assistants Ann and Alison are absolutely fantastic – they really know what good customer service is. They are excellently placed with first class knowledge of frame design and manufacturing techniques as well as in-depth understanding of complex ophthalmic lenses.

“We understand that getting the frame choice correct is incredibly important. Your glasses are the first thing people see when they meet you, so the colour, shape and size are vital.”   

Alison, Optical Assistant, Petticrew Optometrists. 

“Often your prescription will effect the cosmetic appearance of the end product so we can help you in the right direction. On a regular basis, we would order in 5 or 10 frames in the correct material, colour, size and design especially for a patient just to make sure that they are pleased with the end result.”

Ann, Optical Assistant, Petticrew Optometrists.

“Ann and Ali are by far the best optical assistants I have ever worked with. They have a greater depth of optical knowlege and provide the highest level of customer care I have come across in any organisation…and I am passionate about good customer service. I am so proud of them.” 

Andrew Petticrew.

“Of course, they do torment the life out of me on a daily basis…”