A LONG-serving barber has finally cut his ties with the business which has been his life.

Rodney Southgate, 76, of Armoury Road, West Bergolt, ran Rodney’s Barbers in Church Walk, Colchester, for a staggering 47 years, but relinquished responsibility in 2015 when he handed the hairdressers over to an experienced employee.

Unable to fully give up the profession and trade he had been devoted to since 1959, however, Rodney continued to work in the shop every Saturday, tending to the many regular clients he had acquired over his time in the industry.

But after four years of cutting hair in his spare time and a number of medical problems which have started to hinder his ability to cut hair without pain, the veteran hair stylist has finally decided to retire.

Rodney, who also used to run a barbering school, said: “It feels strange because this has been my whole life.

“Since I left school I have been in this profession and I have had three different salons during that time so it’s sad, but I think I deserve a break now.

“I have a bad back now and I have been having a job picking a comb up a floor if I drop one and that’s all to do with doing hairdressing for so long. It’s been a good life.”

Rodney opened his first shop in High Street with business partner Paul Abbott, before moving to the top of Queen Street five years later.

After opening a second barbers and then combining the two shops, Rodney eventually upped sticks and moved to Church Walk, where he has remained ever since.

Since announcing his retirement to his regular customers and close-knit staff, Rodney has received several thank you cards and still vows to pop into the salon from time to time to catch up with the clients who have become his friends.

But for now, he plans on enjoying life and spending time with his wife, starting with a luxurious and indulgent boat trip.

Rodney said: “I’m going to enjoy retirement and have a well-earned rest.

“My wife and I are going on a cruise around the Mediterranean and then on probably a few more holidays as well and we’re going to just try to enjoy life while we still can.

“I think my wife is definitely going to be booking us a lot more holidays now.”