A Preston audiologist is launching The Hearing Grove, offering patients the chance to try hearing aids outdoors in the gardens of historic Winckley Square.

A new independent hearing clinic is opening in Preston city centre with a promise to give patients more time, personal attention and the chance to test hearing aids outdoors.

The Hearing Grove, at 33–34 Winckley Square, is the creation of audiologist Zunaid Patel, who wanted to offer something different from the often hurried appointments he had encountered during his career.

And the picturesque surroundings of Winckley Square Gardens have provided both the inspiration for the clinic’s name and an unusual approach to helping people hear better.

The business will officially open on Saturday, November 7, with a public launch event between 10am and 2pm.

Visitors will be able to tour the premises, meet Zunaid and find out more about hearing health over a coffee.

Zunaid, who is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), said his aim was to create a welcoming environment where patients could receive individual attention without feeling rushed.

”The idea behind it is simple,” he said.

”Throughout my career I've seen how often hearing appointments are short or hurried, and I wanted to create a space where hearing care takes its time.”

The location overlooking Winckley Square Gardens was an important factor in his decision to establish the business there.

”The clinic is named after the park opposite,” he said.

”It was the view from the window that drew me to the room, and I’ve always loved nature, from birdsong to the sound of people and life around us.

”I wanted patients to feel at home and to leave with hope that they can hear their families better.”

One of the clinic’s distinctive features will be the opportunity to try hearing aids outdoors, experiencing how they perform in everyday surroundings rather than simply testing them in a quiet consulting room.

The Hearing Grove will offer private hearing tests, hearing aids and microsuction ear wax removal.

Accessibility is also a priority, with disability access at the premises and home visits available for those unable to attend.

The opening event is open to everyone, whether or not they have concerns about their hearing, and aims to raise awareness of hearing health in the city.