Kenyon Opticians, Bingley celebrates 50 years in business

1974 was a milestone year for Bingley.

The new, ultra-modern head office of the Bradford and Bingley Building Society opened, whilst a lease on small unit opposite was signed by a young ophthalmic optician by the name of David Kenyon.

One of these home-grown businesses did not last the course, but the other has thrived and is still going strong 50 years later.

David Kenyon Ophthalmic Opticians shop – back in 1975. (Image: Kenyon Opticians)

History of the business

Kenyon Opticians, on Main Street in Bingley, opened in 1974 and quickly grew, gaining a reputation for excellent customer service.

In 1992, David needed more help so hired Graham Bennett as his dispensing optician.

David eventually made him a partner and, when retirement came, Graham’s wife, Fay, stepped in to take his place.

Graham Bennett took full ownership in 2014 (Image: Kenyon Opticians) The Bennetts became full owners in 2014 and their aim was to continue Kenyon’s reputation - the business has continued to evolve ever since.

Fay said: “David founded an excellent business and Graham and I are proud to have carried his legacy into the 21st century.

"We have a large customer base, not just in Bingley, thanks to so many word-of-mouth recommendations but we still would like to help more people so there are further plans afoot.

"Here’s to the next 50 spectacular years!”

The shop on Main Street in 2024 (Image: Kenyon Opticians)

'A passion for fashion when it comes to glasses'

Kenyon Opticians has a reputation for having the ultimate in style and the store has over 900 glasses designs on display.

Their ranges include some of the big well-known designer brands like Chloe and Tom Ford, but they are also there to seek out new and interesting designs.

The team celebrating the anniversary (Image: Kenyon Opticians) Fay said: “Our team all have a passion for fashion when it comes to glasses.

"This means that we are always on the lookout for the latest trends and we make sure that our range of eyewear reflects these.”

Some of the products on sale at the opticians (Image: Kenyon Opticians) She added: “A few years ago, we met someone who works behind the scenes on some big film productions. We now have them spying on our behalf, keeping a “golden eye” on what eyewear James Bond will be wearing in his next film!”

Kenyon Opticians has such a good reputation that they have some very dedicated customers travelling long distances to choose the frames they want in person.

Fay continued: “You won’t believe how far some people come, from France, Tenerife and even Australia. We love it that some of our products are only available in London, Brighton and Bingley!”