Press release: New Board member for ABDO

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has a new board member after the results of the latest election were announced. Daryl Newsome has been re-elected for a further term while Lorraine Bleasdale is new to the board.

Lorraine Bleasdale has worked in optics for 28 years having started as a receptionist before working her way up to qualify as a dispensing optician. She is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Masters and an ABDO Local Lead for the North of England, actively helping with CET events. She works part time and says, “Over the last five years, I have fostered three boys, which is rewarding yet challenging. It has given me a greater insight to the family/ work balance and keeping to the commitments surrounding those.” Commenting on her appointment to the board, Lorraine says, “I can’t express how overwhelmed and proud I am to have been elected onto the board, I will do my utmost to make a difference.”

Daryl is a second generation optician following in his father’s footsteps. Qualifying in 1984 he has worked for multiples and independents in various roles including buying, management, training and teaching. Currently he is an associate lecturer at Plymouth university, a partner in Newsome opticians in Devon, a practical and theory examiner for ABDO, and a practical tutor preparing under graduate students for their professional examinations.

The Association’s thanks go out to Kevin Gutsell who was not re-elected. Kevin joined the board in September 2009 and has made a great contribution in this role over the last ten years.

ABDO President Clive Marchant FBDO says, “I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Lorraine Bleasdale on her election to the ABDO board, and to Daryl Newsome on his reappointment. I look forward to working with them both. Thank you also to Kevin Gutsell for his commitment during his term of office.”

The three year term for those elected commenced on Friday 6 September 2019.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1.       Media enquiries to Antonia Chitty, 07538 525476, achitty@abdo.org.uk

2.       Hi res images are available

3.       ABDO represents over 6000 qualified dispensing opticians in the United Kingdom. Registered office, 199, Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD.