News post

Star struck optician meets Gogglebox favourite

OutsideClinic optometrist Kam Kalsi was left star struck recently when he visited Marina in Bristol, who regularly appears in the popular Channel 4 TV show, Gogglebox.

Marina and her friend Mary have appeared in the show since series eight back in 2016 and now are regular favourites with Gogglebox fans, with their witty humour and delightful friendship.

It was Marina's first sight test by OutsideClinic, and she has been really pleased with the service she has been offered, recommending it to all her friends that might need it.

"It's difficult for me to get to another optician. I have tried other services, but I haven't always been pleased with them. I was very pleased with OutsideClinic's service and the glasses - Kam was a lovely chap," said Marina.

OutsideClinic is proud to have provided Marina with a new pair of bright blue Brooklyn spectacles (as seen below) to continue watching her favourite TV shows.

Kam is a big fan of the show and, despite regularly working in the Bristol area, never imagined that he would be visiting someone famous. Not recognising her at first as she was wearing a facemask, he couldn't place how he recognised her voice.

"Eventually, I picked up the courage and asked her if we had met before? She asked if I watch Gogglebox. When we were at a safe distance, she removed her mask, and I couldn't believe it was Marina from Gogglebox sitting in front of me," said Kam.

"I told her I was a big fan of hers, and I couldn't believe I was testing her eyes. I had to compose myself to carry out the examination, as I was so excited. She was very lovely and funny, just as she is on TV."

But Kam also got to meet Marina's friend Mary who also appears on the TV show. He said; "they were both hilarious; I was almost in tears. They made my day, and I will treasure the moment forever. I even got a signed photo of them both on Gogglebox and a socially distanced selfie. It was a great day at work."

Careers

Become part of the fastest growing and largest domiciliary practice in the UK

Find our more

Understanding your eye test prescription and receipt

Unsure about the numbers on your prescription or receipt? Check out our guide to help you understand the essential information on your prescription.

Why do my ears itch with hearing aids?

It's normal to feel a bit of itchiness in the first few weeks of wearing new hearing aids. Just like getting used to a new pair of glasses, you're initially very aware of them resting on your nose.

Vision loss and dementia

Can dementia affect vision? Yes, dementia can affect vision, but it’s not always straightforward. Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, can lead to changes in the brain that affect how visual information is processed.

Vision loss after a stroke

A lot of the time, a stroke doesn’t actually affect the eyes, but more the part of the brain that affects vision. This means that the ability to see properly can be inconsistent, with some days being better than others.

Tracey regains clearer vision for crafting and bird watching

Over the years, Tracey had missed out on the small joys that once brought her happiness. "I used to enjoy making key rings, but I had to give it up." However following a visit from OutsideClinic, Tracey is excited to reconnect with family and enjoy bird watching again. It’s the little things that make all the difference.

Preventing falls in the elderly

About one in three adults aged 65 and older will experience a fall each year. (Source: NHS, “Falls - Prevention,” NHS UK.) OutsideClinic and Trinity Homecare are here to help families navigate these challenges.

10 best foods for eye health

A common question we see is that "Are there any foods that can help your vision" A short answer is no, there is nothing you can eat that will help increase your vision. However, there are certain foods you can look to in-corporate in your diet to help improve the health of your eyes. Included we have the all foods that will help aide this.

6 tips on how to make watching TV easier with low vision

From selecting the right TV and optimising your viewing setup to adjusting settings for better visibility and utilising supportive technologies like audio descriptions and voice-controlled remotes, we cover everything you need to make watching TV more accessible. Whether you're updating your equipment or adjusting your current setup, our advice is designed to help you see better and enjoy more.

Nystagmus: Causes, treatments, signs and symptoms

Nystagmus is an eye condition where the eyes make rhythmical, repetitive and uncontrollable movements. It can affect one or both eyes and often leads to visual disturbances.

Coloboma: What is it, affects on the eye, causes and blindness risks

Coloboma is a rare eye condition where normal tissue in or around the eye is missing from birth. It can affect one or both eyes and can involve different parts of the eye, such as the iris, retina, choroid, or optic nerve.

Detached retina: Signs, symptoms, causes and surgery

A detached retina occurs when the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye (the retina) pulls away from its normal position. The retina is crucial for vision as it sends visual signals to the brain, and when it detaches, it can lead to serious vision problems.

Keep your eye health on track, with athlete James Ledger

Paralympic hopeful James Ledger’s journey is a testament to overcoming visual challenges. Despite being born with bilateral coloboma and nystagmus, and facing detached retinas, James remains determined to compete at the highest level. Learn how regular eye tests have been crucial in his journey and why prioritising eye health is essential for everyone.

Request a home visit

We offer both eye and hearing tests - you will be invited to book both tests using this form.

Home eye test

Great news! We think you're entitled to an NHS funded eye examination in your own home.

While you aren't entitled to NHS funding, you can still benefit from our home eye test for the standard fee of £60. By clicking next and submitting a booking request you acknowledge that you understand a fee for a private test applies.

Home hearing test

Private

NHS

Don't know

Searching…

Patient details

Add another patient?

Contact details

Check appointment details and click the Complete Booking button

Thank you