The A&J Professional Staff

James Taylor-Short BSc (Hons), FdSc FBDO – Director, Dispensing Optician & Pre-Reg Optometrist
James first stepped into the world of optics around 2000 as a lab technician, crafting lenses and spectacles. Whilst training as a Dispensing Optician, He joined his father-in-law’s practice in Teignmouth before opening A&J Opticians in 2008 with Anita—a proud milestone for them both. Along the way, he continued working with Bill & Taylor Opticians, later selling his part of the business to focus on growing A&J Opticians.

James has always loved helping people see and look their best, and becoming an Optometrist has been his long-term goal. In 2025 James gained his degree in Optometry and has now started his Pre-Reg year. Away from work, he's a husband, dad, and devoted dog-dad who loves nothing more than surfing whenever he can.

Amanda Smith BA (Hons) MOptom, MCOptom  – Optometrist

Amanda joined A&J Opticians in 2024, bringing valuable experience from the multiple-sector of the optical world. Originally from Canada, she earned a first-class honours degree in Optometry. Since qualifying Amanda has mentored many students and pre-registration optometrists and has been practicing for over 10 years. 

When James began searching for a new resident optometrist, it was clear from their first meeting that Amanda was the perfect fit for A&J. She is passionate about delivering outstanding eye care to the Torrington community And will be mentoring James during his Pre-Reg year. 

Outside the practice, Amanda is a devoted wife and mum who loves walks on the beach and Canada Day! 

Sam Alexander – Student Dispensing Optician

Sam joined A&J in April 2024 after seven years working in the multiple-sector of optometry. He enjoys guiding patients through their entire journey, from the first appointment to collecting their finished glasses, and values being part of A&J’s welcoming, collaborative team.

Outside the practice, Sam is an avid gym-goer and trains in K1 kickboxing—so a black eye now and then comes with the territory. He also loves cooking and shares his home with two cats and a recently adopted Chihuahua puppy, a choice credited to his partner Jasmine. Together, they travel as often as possible, exploring new places around the world.

Although early in his dispensing-optics studies, Sam is already embracing the challenges and finding the learning process both exciting and rewarding.

Jess Collyer. FBDO– Dispensing Optician

Jess began her optics career in 2011 as a trainee optical assistant and qualified as a dispensing optician in 2017. She joined the A&J team in Torrington in 2022 and has quickly become our resident coffee advisor.

A proud mum of three, Jess loves enjoying coffee outings with family and friends and spending time by the sea. When she’s not at work—or sampling a new brew—she enjoys travelling through France with her family