Twyford pharmacy bids farewell to much-loved pharmacist following his retirement

A pharmacy in Twyford has bid farewell to ‘one of its most recognisable and trusted healthcare professionals’ following his retirement.

Originally from Barnsley, pharmacist David Ostrowski moved to Berkshire more than 30 years ago and worked across several pharmacies before joining Newdays Pharmacy almost 18 years ago in July 2008.

Since then, he has become a ‘familiar, reassuring presence for generations’ of patients in the area, the pharmacy team said.

Mr Ostrowski has played a ‘key part’ in aiding the pharmacy to adapt from primarily undertaking a dispensing role to providing a ‘highly clinical, patient-facing service’.

Under his leadership, the pharmacy became ‘well known for delivering a wide range of NHS services’.

These included consultations and treatment for conditions such as ear infections, sore throats and other minor illnesses, as well as NHS contraceptive services.

Mr Ostrowski was also ‘instrumental’ in introducing popular services including travel health and NHS weight management to the pharmacy, which remain ‘well used by local residents today’.

His last day at the pharmacy was on Wednesday, December 31.

A farewell message shared by the pharmacy on social media ahead of his departure garnered an ‘overwhelming’ response with more than 160 messages of recognition and thanks pouring in for Mr Ostrowski.

He has also received gifts from well-wishers.

Olivier Picard, owner of Newdays Pharmacy, said: “The messages of support have been truly overwhelming and show just how much David means to this community.

“He has been a constant, trusted presence for so many people over the years.

“We wish him a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.”