01234 354343 
eyecare@humphrissandburgess.co.uk 

 A sophisticated understanding of the past is one of the most powerful tools we have for shaping the future.”  OUR HISTORY  

In 1946 Deryck Humphriss and Fred Burgess established Humphriss and Burgess” from their premises on Bedford High Street near to the Market Square. Deryk moved to South Africa in early 1950’s becoming a sleeping partner while Fred continued to manage the practice single-handed. Fred’s wife Vicky was the Practice Manager. 
In the 1960’s The practice relocated to the Mill Street premises that you visit today. 
Richard Bell became Fred’s junior partner in 1978, purchasing Deryk Humphriss’s share. 
 
In 1983, Fred Burgess retired and Christine Bell came in as partner and part-time Optometrist. Two pre-registered Optometrists spent their pre-reg year in the practice under Richard’s supervision and both continued to work part-time or on locum basis after qualifying. 
 
Big changes took place in 1988, Lynx Optical design carried out an internal practice refit. In 1997 a major external rebuild was also carried out to install safety shutters and modernise the windows and doors. The roof was retiled 2001 and work to install a damp proof course was done in 2012. 
 
In 2012 Christine retired and the practice was sold to Rakesh and Poonam Shah. Richard Bell continued to practice on a locum basis until his retirement in 2015. 
For more information, or to book an appointment, simply call us on 01234 354343. 
 
Humphriss & Burgess - We care about your eye care