A HAIRDRESSER who retired after working at a Greenmount salon for nearly 40 years marked the occasion by cutting the hair of her one of her first ever clients.

Krystyna Stasiak packed away the scissors and hairdryer for the last time at Aspire Hair and Beauty, in Vernon Road, after working there for 39 years.

She has worked as a hairdresser for 48 years since leaving school at the age of 15, and has worked at the salon under differing periods of ownership, for 39 years.

Her career went full circle when regular client Iris Tatton came into the salon, and had her hair styled for the last time.

The 63-year-old, of Butler Street, Ramsbottom, said: "I just love the job. I still love it and continued to enjoy it even until my last day. I could have carried on, but now I have got a new job looking after my nine-month-old grandson, Jacob.

"It is so sociable, and I have built up a great rapport with my clients, many of whom I have dealt with for four decades.

"But the job wouldn't be the same without the people who work around you. All of the staff at the salon are amazing."

Salon owner Valerie Taylor said Mrs Stasiak will be much missed by her fellow staff and customers.

She said: "Some of the clients, who came to her 34 years ago, are still among her regular clientèle, which is an amazing achievement and one which gives her and us great pride and satisfaction.

"Krystyna has a special gift for dressing hair and as she knows all her clients’ individual needs so well, this ensures they feel comfortable and at home here.

"However, all good things must come to an end and Krystyna is really looking forward to her forthcoming well earned retirement.

She added: "Krystyna’s attendance record, since we took over as Aspire in October 2007, has been incredible. We sincerely hope that her good health continues and that she enjoys a long and happy retirement – she has certainly earned it."