Singing chemists strikes a chord with customers

Photo: Picture: VINCENT BROWN

PHARMACIST Ian Strachan (centre) celebrates his Pride in Oldham nomination with staff Howard Houghton and Nicky Goodwin.

Uppermill’s singing pharmacist Ian Strachan has hit the high notes once again after finding out he and his staff have been nominated for a prestigious Pride in Oldham Award.

Famed locally for his Sinatra-style crooning, the chemist and his dedicated team of five staff have been put forward by a loyal customer as one of the jewels in Oldham’s crown.

James MacLean, who nominated the group, said: “I am on a lot of medication and I have never been let down yet.

“They pick up your prescription, deliver it to your home and they even call you in case you have forgotten.

“They are all very caring and are always willing to give advice.”

It’s been a successful but challenging first 18 months Ian and his team since setting up Strachan’s Pharmacy in New Street, Uppermill in 2009. He also runs chemists in Bury and Widnes.

As an example of the lengths staff go to, delivery man Howard Houghton had to abandon his van and trek through deep snow to hand-deliver prescriptions to customers unable to get to the pharmacy during the harsh winter.

Staff were also taking to the streets of Uppermill, braving the cold to hand deliver prescriptions.

It is this routine of going above and beyond the call of duty that has helped the business go from strength to strength and become a well-loved staple in the village.

Ian was thrilled when he heard about the nomination.

He said: “We are so flattered to have been recommended for an award. It’s a great reflection on the staff – it is they who make it.”

Ian’s team is made up of Alyson Lord, Nicky and Becky Goodwin, Lorna Seel and Howard Houghton, and Ian admits he could not have done it without them.

He said: “There are a lot of people who live in the outer reaches of Saddleworth who were stuck during the winter.

“For us, it’s all about trying to help people and giving them a personal service — it’s not rocket science.

“The staff try their best to sort out problems and really care for the customers.”

By night, Ian is transformed into a Ratpack sound-alike, serenading locals with classic hits such as ‘I’ve got you under my skin’, but it’s his skills in the pharmacy that have thrust him into the spotlight once again.

But the modest chemist thinks his business is not alone, and is quick to flag up the good work done by pharmacies across the country.

Mr MacLean and his wife were among the first customers through the door when the business first opened, and have stuck by the team since.

Ian said: “It is a very kind gesture and it’s nice to be recognised and appreciated for the work we do.”

l If you would like to nominate someone for an award, fill in and return the form below.