Ryders Chemist – A True Lifeline for Formby is this week’s Business Of The Week

Formby Bubble
Jul 28
2 min read

This week, we’re celebrating a business that has quietly become one of Formby’s most relied-upon community pillars, Ryders Chemist, located at 41 Old Town Lane.

Serving the area since 1985, Ryders Chemist has been more than just a place to pick up prescriptions—it’s a trusted and consistent part of life for thousands of local residents. Offering both NHS and private clinical services, the team at Ryders combines professionalism with a truly personal touch that has earned them deep respect in the community.

For nearly 30 years, the pharmacy was owned by Martin Hough, who built a strong and loyal customer base. During that time, Ryders dispensed an average of nearly 8,700 items a month, operating side-by-side with the local GP practice. Martin sold the business in 2023 upon retirement, handing the reins to Farakh Riaz and Waqas Riaz, two experienced pharmacists and independent prescribers who now lead the business with fresh vision and a strong emphasis on clinical care.

Today, Ryders Chemist offers a wide range of health services including:

NHS prescriptions
Private and NHS flu & COVID‑19 vaccinations
Minor ailment consultations (e.g. UTIs, skin infections, earache)
Blood pressure monitoring
Contraceptive advice
Travel vaccinations
Safe disposal of old medicines
Homeopathic remedies and over-the-counter healthcare products

Open six days a week, the pharmacy is well-known for its helpful, knowledgeable staff who are always ready to assist—no matter how big or small the concern.

One local customer, Tina, recently shared her appreciation, writing:

“Ryders Chemist and all the staff have never once turned me away when I’ve needed help. The chemist surely has more medical knowledge than a telephone receptionist. I use them more than I probably should, but only because they’re so obliging. I try to buy something off the shelf each time I go in—because whatever they’re getting paid, it’s not enough.”

Tina’s words reflect what many Formby residents feel—that Ryders Chemist isn’t just a local business, it’s a local lifeline. As the landscape of primary care becomes more difficult to navigate, pharmacies like Ryders are stepping in to provide immediate, knowledgeable, and compassionate support.

Originally incorporated in 2002, and now under the management of two hands-on directors with a focus on frontline care, Ryders continues to grow with the needs of the community. Their blend of clinical services and caring, familiar faces is what makes them stand out—not just in Formby, but across the region.

Whether you’re collecting a prescription, seeking trusted advice, or looking for reliable health support close to home, Ryders Chemist remains one of Formby’s most vital and appreciated businesses.

From all of us at Formby Bubble—thank you to the entire team at Ryders. Your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.