Chemist Ian adds a dose of competition

Venture hits the right note with PCT

AN Uppermill man is singing the praises of the primary care trust after opening a new chemists.

Part-time singer Ian Strachan, who lives in the village, has opened in New Street — in premises formerly occupied by the RSPCA — after making a second, successful application to NHS Oldham, the new name of the borough’s PCT.

Known as the Singing Chemist, Mr Strachan, (47), from Bury but now living in the Saddleworth village, has invested £150,000 to establish Strachan’s Chemists — his third outlet.

He already has businesses in Widnes, which he opened in January, 2007, and Bury, which started trading in June the same year.

A chemist for more than 20 years, Mr Strachan was delighted when the PCT accepted his arguments that Uppermill would benefit from competition.

He said: “When I first tried to set up two years ago I was knocked back but this time I have been able to demonstrate a need and the opportunity to give people a choice.

“Since I have been living in the village, I have always thought that a second outlet would be desirable.

“A chemist is an essential part of life for many people . . . a chemist can offer advice and reassurance and it must not be forgotten that we have a responsibility to offer a personal service.”

Mr Strachan, who will work in the Uppermill business, will be assisted by five staff and two delivery drivers. He employs a total of 16 full and part-time staff at his three outlets.

He qualified as a chemist in 1986 after gaining a degree in pharmacy at Brighton in 1985.

He has worked for the Home Office in the forensic science division, qualified as a pilot and completed his training with Boots.