MEET THE TEAM

Ali has been involved with the practice since 1982. He is a highly experienced optometrist and contact lens practitioner with advanced contact lens diploma (DCLP). As well as working at Hitchin, he also works at a number of Hospital Eye Departments including Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge where he specialises in complex contact lens fitting. He is a member of BCLA (British Contact Lens Association), and UK Keratoconus Self Help and Support Association. Outside optics, Ali is a Rotarian and enjoys getting involved in various charity projects. In his spare time he enjoys cooking, listening to music, and country walks.

Elanor joined the practice in 2002 and was previously in charge of a practice in Welwyn Garden City. She is married with two teenage sons. Elanor runs the Contact Lens Clinic at Moorfields Eye Hospital at Bedford as well as working at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, and at Hitchin.

Laura joined our practice in 2016, bringing with her over 18 years of optical experience in a wide variety of practices, from high street multiples to family run independents. Laura prides herself on professionalism and attention to detail, using her extensive knowledge to help patients choose glasses which are not only comfortable, but look good and reflect their personality.

Laura is mum to two young boys, and enjoys swimming, arts and crafts and cooking in her (rare) spare time.

Julie started her career in optics in 1997 as a trainee Optical Assistant. Throughout the years she gained experience to become a senior Optical assistant and then Manager of a busy practice.

In her spare time she enjoy running, walking and reading.

Lauren was previously the practice manager at Hitchin Visioncare for 10 years and joined us when Hitchin Visioncare merged with us in 2021. She has brought her extensive knowledge of designer brands, dispensing a variety of different lenses and problem solving. Lauren prides herself in her ability to build relationships with our patients and helping them with all of their needs. In her spare time, Lauren is a huge theatre nerd and especially loves seeing a musical in the West End. She loves cooking and trying new, exciting foods whilst sipping a glass of wine!

Jodie is the Queen of our contact lens department! She has previously worked in optics for over 2 years and joined us in 2021. Jodie is in charge of ordering contact lenses for our patients here at Shephard and Akay, as well as for patients seen at our hospital clinics. Jodie also completes important admin tasks such as handling direct debits and invoices. She spends her weekends drinking wine, watching movies and reading thrillers.

Anneka joined us as an Optical Assistant in 2015 with 3 years experience in a busy practice and took on the role of team leader in 2021. Having worn glasses from a very young age, Anneka is very aware of the importance of looking good in glasses and uses her personal experience to help patients choose the frames and lenses most suited to them. Anneka has recently become a new mum and when she’s not looking after her little one, she enjoys socialising with friends, winding down with a glass of wine with a good novel and her favourite food.

Emma is our resident Australian. She joined our team in 2023 after making the move to the UK from Australia with her young family. She brings with her nearly 15 years of customer service experience. Emma worked in Optics in Australia, working in both multiples and in private practises. Emma started her obsession with glasses working with Rayban and Oakley from 2017, then moved to a sole Optician practice in 2019. When not at work she is seeking the sun with glass of wine.

Darren is one of our newest members of the team. He has over 30 years in the optical industry and qualified as a Dispensing Optician over 20 years ago. He loves to build a rapport with the customers often telling  a dad joke or two.
With his experience he knows what frame and lenses works and doesn't work for patients.

In his personal life he loves football and has a keen interest in Luton town football club.

Megan is a qualified Optometrist who splits her time between our practice and a specialised contact lens clinic at Addenbrooke's hospital, Cambridge. She has an 'eye' for detail and will go above and beyond to meet the needs of our patients, to the best of her ability. Prior to completing her Optometry degree, Megan studied Biochemistry at the University of Reading. Megan is a travel enthusiast and is always on the lookout for new places to explore!