AN opticians in Wiltshire has won the Sunday Times’ prestigious Money Gold Medalist award after a patient nominated the branch for excellent customer service.

The money section of the national newspaper invites readers to share positive customer service stories and nominate companies that provide their customers with a truly memorable experience.

The Haine & Smith practice in Highworth was nominated by a patient whose mother unexpectedly died shortly after she purchased a pair of glasses for £471, and staff immediately refunded the cost of the glasses to the patient’s daughter.

Giles Smith, business partner, said: “This is a shining example of how ‘going the extra mile’ for our patients really does make all the difference.”