ABOUT CRANMERS
Cranmers is one of the oldest Optical Practices in the UK. We have been providing eyecare for generations.
At Cranmers, we strive to provide excellent service, quality of care and value for money.
We are constantly working on this and value your feedback to continue this development.
OUR PROMISE
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We care about our patients and our door is always open.
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We will treat you with respect, courtesy and kindness.
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We will take that extra step on your behalf especially when you need us to.
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We will endeavour to be at the forefront of clinical excellence to ensure you receive the highest quality care.
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Our guarantees on products exceeds the optical industry standards.
OUR STORY
From a bank to completing jewellery and watch repairs, our building and practice has a long, rich history within the community.
Cranmers had a written aim on their very first appointment card… “A complete and thorough examination for every patient, irrespective of income”, this is a philosophy that has been at the heart of the practice ever since.
1900
Established by H.E Cranmer in 1908, the practice was originally located on the opposite side of Park Street. Mr Cranmer practised there for over 30 years.
The next optician was Mr Pickford who married Mr Cranmer’s daughter. For the next 30 years he worked in partnership with Mr Askew, under the practice name of Cranmer and Askew, with the addition of an extra partner Mr Gaylard, who died in 1968 aged only 46.
1960 – 1970
Mr Derek Webb then joined the practice in 1969, and upon Mr Askew’s exit formed a partnership with Mr Melhuish that lasted until Mr Webb’s retirement in 2004.
1970 – 2004
Mrs Melhuish, also an optician, joined the practice in 1984.
Mr Webb and Mr Melhuish also opened a small practice in Tiverton in 1979, which continued until 2002.
Mr Askew returned to Minehead in 1975 and opened a small branch practice above Barclays Bank, continuing to practice into his 80s.
2008 – Today
Mr Melhuish officially retired from the practice in 2008 but continued to work until 2010 at which point he decided to put down his ophthalmoscope for good!
Mr Askews son, Anthony Askew returned to the practice to help out with optometry duties when needed. He was born in Minehead above the practice some 70 years ago! After over 50 years of service to optometry, Anthony Askew retired in 2013.
To bring Cranmers heritage up to date, Kate Webb and Damien Reavey enhance the practice’s clinical reputation with the introduction of the latest OCT technology. Under Kate’s watchful eye the practice expanded it range of frames and built an expert team ready to help every customer ensuring a warm welcome at the practice for all.
2021 sees Cranmers acquire and merge with Exmoor Eyecare creating the leading independent optometry practice in West Somerset and expanding the provision of care to the Minehead community.
We continue to have many patients who have been coming to the practice for over 40 years, and one who has been coming since 1928!
OUR FRIENDLY & PROFESSIONAL TEAM
