IT manager Thomas Pears has been chosen from more than 140 members of staff at Haine & Smith across Wiltshire for its annual Top Employee award.

Mr Pears, who lives in Devizes, is based at the opticians’ head office in Pewsey and has been with the firm for nearly eight years. He is overseeing the installation of a new patient relationship management system in Haine & Smith’s 19 practices and optical laboratory.

Mr Pears has been praised by senior management for his outstanding contribution to Haine & Smith during the past year.

Chairman Barry Smith said: “Thomas has worked tirelessly to enable the changeover from the old computer system to the new one while ensuring there has been the least amount of disruption to Haine & Smith’s patients and staff. He has been proactive and supportive throughout the operation.”