Thursday March 19th 2026
Sheila Glynn, receptionist and optical assistant at McLeish Eyecare
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
An independent Musselburgh opticians marked its first anniversary with a community fundraising event, raising money for a local charity that supports elderly residents across East Lothian.
McLeish Eyecare, based on Bridge Street, celebrated one year since the merger and relocation of IJ McLeish Opticians and Montgomery Optometrists with an in-practice event on 3rd March, partnering with The Hollies Musselburgh.
The team welcomed patients and members of the public into the practice for nibbles and refreshments, while raising funds for the charity, which provides vital support and social opportunities for older people in the local area.
As part of the celebrations, McLeish Eyecare introduced a ‘spin the wheel’ fundraiser, which will remain in practice throughout March. For a small donation, visitors can take part for the chance to win prizes including umbrellas, sunglasses, bags and discounts on spectacles. A separate children’s prize wheel has also been introduced, offering family-friendly prizes for younger visitors to get involved with.
In addition, every patient visiting the practice during March will be entered into a prize draw with an array of impressive prizes, including kids’ sunglasses and vouchers for local restaurant, Lido, and Blueberry Gift Shop, further reinforcing the practice’s commitment to supporting fellow independent businesses in the town.
Practice Manager at McLeish Eyecare, Helen Dick, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to have reached our first anniversary as McLeish Eyecare in our new home, and it felt only right to mark the occasion by giving something back to the community that has supported us throughout this past year.
“The Hollies does such important work for elderly people locally, helping to reduce loneliness and provide meaningful support. If we can use our anniversary as a way to shine a light on that and raise some funds at the same time, then that’s something we’re really pleased to do.”
McLeish Eyecare was formed following the merger of IJ McLeish Opticians and Montgomery Optometrists in 2025, with the newly combined team relocating to modern premises at 8 Bridge Street. The move allowed the practice to introduce a refreshed interior, expanded frame collections, and enhanced clinical technology, while maintaining the personalised, independent care that both practices built their reputations on over the past 30 years.
Since the merger, the team has continued to invest in its services and was recently recognised as a finalist for Independent Practice of the Year at the 2025 Scottish Optometry Awards.
Helen added: “This past year has been about building on the strong foundations of both practices and continuing to deliver the highest standard of eye care to our community.
“Celebrating our anniversary by supporting a local charity perfectly reflects what we stand for as an independent practice.”
To find out more about McLeish Eyecare, or to book an appointment, visit: www.mcleisheyecare.co.uk
To find out more about The Hollies, please visit: www.neighbourly.com/HolliesMusselburgh
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