Salons and barbers back open but call for support - after toughest year ever

Salons such as Portsmouth-based hairdressers Hardysalon and Fareham barbers Razor Sharp, in Miller Drive, have faced adversity due to closures.

The businesses were forced to close for months earlier this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Then just as things were starting to even out, they were forced to close again at the beginning of November due to the lockdown, at a traditionally busy time of the year as people prepare for Christmas parties.

It’s been a rollercoaster for the staff, who have been unable to work.

Razor Sharp owner Dom Valente said it had been his toughest year yet.

He said: ‘It has been really tough. We have been closed for the best part of five months.

‘The industry as a whole has taken a beating. It was touch and go whether we would survive.’

Dom said that him and his two colleagues Jake Bascombe and Monique Liddell were working flat out to fit in all the customers, carrying out up to 100 hair cuts per day.

But he said he was grateful for his customers’ support.

SEE ALSO: Portsmouth salon prepares for packed December as hairdressers across Britain reopen

He said: ‘We are grateful to be open in the face of adversity. For us it is testament to our loyal customers.’

Hardysalon co-owner Rachel Hardy said they were delighted to be back at the salon in Lord Montgomery Way.

She said: ‘We’re so happy to reopen because it’s a busy time of year.

‘After the first lockdown we welcomed our clients back to a really busy period, but it’s been tough, as a lot of people in the industry would agree with.

‘This is always our busiest time of year and after lockdown we’ve seen an influx of people getting their hair done ready for the festive season.

‘People are supporting local business more than ever. It’s great to see people coming to support our business.’

Like Razor Sharp, the salon has introduced safety measures to comply with Covid-19 regulations, including face coverings and social distancing.

Co-owner Yasmin Leigh said: ‘We’re really optimistic about the new year and we’re hoping we can continue our busy streak as people feel more confident resuming their normal day-to-day lives.’

The News launched the #supportlocal campaign to highlight the fact that local businesses need support more than ever after a tough year – and to show the variety and expertise that they bring to our towns and cities.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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