A FAMILY-owned opticians business was given a civic boost at the opening of its latest shop.

Bradford's Lord Mayor, Councillor Joanne Dodds, helped launch the new Tunnacliffe and Lambert Opticians branch in Station Road, Clayton .

Owner Andrew Lambert, who grew up in the village, said there was a gap in the local market. The Clayton branch, which has created two new roles alongside professional staff, is the first opening by the 45 year-old business for several years.

Optometrist Elizabeth Holmes and dispensing optician Rachel Phillips are based in the new practice which previously housed an estate agency and chartered surveyors business.

Tunnacliffe and Lambert also has two other Bradford branches in Great Horton Road and Tong Street, along with practices in Farsley, Mexborough and Sheffield employing a total of 17 staff.

Andrew Lambert said: " We have identified a need for local optician in Cayton and our new practice will fill a gap in the market. It's the first new launch for us in several years and we are optimistic that local people will appreciate having an opticians close to hand.

"The response to date has been very positive and encouraging. The new branch is in an excellent central village location and I am confident that it will fulfill a need and succeed through providing a range of general professional eye care ."