WASHINGTON Pharmacy of Penarth has been awarded second place in the 2014 Chemist and Druggist Platinum Design awards.

The prestigious award highlights the most inviting modern pharmacies, delivering excellent patient care, selected from across the whole of the UK.

Jane Soltys bought Washington Pharmacy in 2005 when it was a dated, cramped business with little flexibility to expand and no space for private consultations. But when the adjoining shop became vacant, the decision was made to invest and expand.

The refit delivered an enlarged and more efficient dispensary, increased sales space, provided new consultation and treatment rooms, and better staff facilities. Alongside this was a total overhaul of stock lines with the arrival of quality toiletry, skincare and cosmetic lines.

A new double width shop front with wide doors, one power assisted, gives views to an interior fitted out in a distinctive red, lime green, grey and white livery. Wide aisles improve access. A new treatment room means holistic therapies, osteopathy and chiropody services are now offered six days a week.

Jane Soltys, pharmacist and proprietor of Washington Pharmacy, said: "Finalists were chosen from across the UK and we're all absolutely delighted to be runner-up in this prestigious national award, despite the high standards of entries."

"We're thrilled that our refit, by Swansea based shopfitters the BAPPT Group, has achieved our targets of enhanced service, innovation and efficiency. Last year our over the counter sales and prescriptions increased significantly and we are now able to offer a wider range of healthcare services including diabetes and cholesterol testing, blood pressure testing, skin condition diagnosis, allergy screening, malaria prophylaxis and seasonal flu vaccinations from our private consultation and treatment rooms."

Washington Pharmacy will be also attending the Welsh Pharmacy Awards at Cardiff City Hall on Thursday, May 22, where they will be finalists in two categories: Pharmacy Manager of the Year (Independent) and Business Development of the Year (Independent).