Barber retires after 50 years
Barrie Bancroft retiring after 50 years. - Credit: Archant
A barber from Backwell will be hanging up his clippers after 50 years in the trade.
Barrie Bancroft, aged 64, is retiring from Backwell Barber Shop, in West Town Road, to spend time with his wife and enjoy his many hobbies.
The talented hair stylist started out as a Saturday boy in 1967.
He was offered an apprenticeship with the owner Les Vowles and was trained by him for three years.
When Les went to work at Weston College, Barrie and fellow barber Jamie Sparey took over the shop as part owners.
Jamie, who took up an apprenticeship at the barber shop in 1968, said: “I started just after Barrie and we were 18 when we took over the shop.
“We don’t just cover Backwell but also have people from Yatton and Congresbury and we’ve got a lot of loyal customers.
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“Barrie’s wife has retired now so he thought it was time to pack it in.
“He likes animals and walking and he’s got about an acre of land. He’s a busy man and also enjoys country pursuits.
“I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Jamie will miss his colleague and friend after working with him for 50 years.
Fellow barber Pelligrino, who is known to customers as Pino, will now be working alongside Jamie at the shop.
Pino has been working at Backwell Barber Shop for five years and will be helping to serve the loyal customers who pop in for a cut or trim.