STAFF at an opticians recognised as one of the top 100 small firms in the country visited Downing Street today to celebrate Small Business Saturday.

Chancellor George Osborne invited Williams Optometrists, of London Road, Benfleet, to a reception at 11 Downing Street in recognition of its success on Friday.

The visit came ahead of yesterday's special event, where people are encouraged to support small businesses.

Qualified dispensing optician Nicole Banbury will meet Mr Osborne, Matthew Hancock, Minister of State for Business and Enterprise, and other firms chosen for the “Small Biz 100” list.

Mrs Banbury, 32, from Rochford, said: “The key to success is strong links to patients and the community and Small Business Saturday is a fantastic way of supporting other independent businesses in our area.

“It’s a great way to network and connect with the community.”

The Treasury listed the firm in the top 100 in August after it applied for entry in the summer.

Staff received the invitation to the Whitehall reception last month.

Mrs Banbury said judges were impressed by the firm’s personal service as staff take time to ensure patients have the right lenses and frames.

The shop, which opened in 1968, has two dispensing opticians registered with the General Optical Council and the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, allowing it to prescribe lenses for children.

Williams Optometrists reopened after an £80,000 refit yesterday.

Staff donned fancy dress to raise awareness for the RNIB and Blind Veterans UK as well as local charities such as the Art Ministry and the Salvation Army centre at Hadleigh Farm.