OUR HISTORY
OUR
STORY
For over a century, there has been an optician’s practice at 21 Fisherton Street, making us one of the longest-standing businesses here, alongside the florist by the train station. We’re proud to be located in the heart of a vibrant street filled with other independent stores, reflecting the unique character of Fisherton Street.
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SPRINGATES OPTICIANS
Our journey began around 1900 as part of a small group of opticians called Springates. In 1915, the Springates location at 21 Fisherton Street flooded, but the classic optician’s sign above remained a recognizable landmark. Recently, we even found some of the old iron that would have been part of that original sign. Next door at number 23 is Asbridge Jewellers, where Mr. Eric Asbridge was born in 1907.
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ASBRIDGE OPTICIANS
Mr. Eric Asbridge, the son of the Asbridge family jewelers at 23 Fisherton Street, initially pursued jewelry and watchmaking. However, he soon discovered a passion for optometry and, with support from Springates’ optician, studied at the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, earning the title of Freeman of London. In 1928, he took over Springates and rebranded it as Asbridge Opticians.
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MR. & MRS. MCCOY
In 1975, upon Mr. Asbridge’s retirement, the practice was taken over by Janet and Malcolm McCoy. The McCoys preserved the practice's rich heritage and reputation while building strong ties with the nearby infirmary on Fisherton Street. They formed a well-regarded partnership, with Malcolm providing eye exams and Janet overseeing dispensing. Many loyal patients from their time still visit us today.
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MARK JONES
Mark Jones acquired Asbridge Opticians in 2005, ushering in a new era of modernization. Like the McCoys and Mr. Asbridge before him, Mark has continued to provide exceptional care to the people of Salisbury, encouraging the team to uphold high standards. In 2011, he rebranded the practice as Mark Jones Eye Care to reflect the ongoing improvements. The Asbridge Opticians clock still hangs in the practice, a nod to our proud heritage.
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MARK JONES EYE & HEARING CARE
Since the transition to Mark Jones Eye Care, the practice has flourished. In 2018, we expanded into number 23, doubling our space. Today, as a family-run business, we’re honored to carry forward this legacy, blending history with modern care for our patients.