Who We Are
Irena Kovaleva BA(Hons) BSc(Hons) MCOptom Prof Cert Glaucoma
Optometrist
Originally from Russia, Irena came to Wales in 2001. Irena trained at Cardiff University before graduating in 2009 and set up Crickhowell Optometrists a year later. Irena provides specialist care for over 4,000 patients and following her qualification, taught 3rd year Optometry students at Cardiff University. Irena has over 15 years’ experience in optometry and has recently gained post graduate qualifications in glaucoma and medical retina. Irena is trained to carry out WGOS Examinations for Urgent Eye Problems and is WGOS Low Vision Assessment accredited.
Irena is supported by a team of optical assistants who are trained to enhance your experience, from choosing eyewear to suit your face shape to using your first pair of contact lenses.
Kelly Bromwell
Kelly joined the team at Crickhowell Optometrists in 2020 and has been a friendly face at the practice ever since.
She lives on a farm just outside Crickhowell with her husband and their two grown-up sons and is very much part of the local community. Away from work, she helps run a small caravan site, welcoming visitors to this beautiful corner of Wales.
Warm, caring and approachable, Kelly loves helping patients find the right eyewear and making every visit feel relaxed, personal and welcoming.
Clare Hirst
Clare joined Crickhowell Optometrists in 2025 after many years in the property industry and was already a familiar face to many of our patients.
She helps care for the animals on her family farm in the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, and when she’s not outdoors, she enjoys baking for family, friends and the team.
Friendly and approachable, Clare has a great eye for style and loves helping patients find eyewear that looks good, feels comfortable and suits them perfectly.
