Grahams Barbers celebrates 50 years. This Dukinfield shop offers a friendly atmosphere. It is filled with memories & community.
Graham’s son, Gareth, runs the shop now. Gareth says it is like a pub, but there’s no alcohol. The shop has a warm and welcoming feel. Regular customer John is greeted by Graham, and the sound of clippers fills the air.
John has had only two barbers ever. Graham has been his barber for over 40 years. Graham is 78 years old and started barbering at age 15. He opened his shop in 1975, and the business has grown over the years.
Graham now works only one day a week, but he still enjoys it just as much. The shop got busier, so he hired staff. Two years ago, they expanded the shop. Graham greets customers now.
He still has clients from the very beginning, who have been with him for 60 years. It is a social event for him where people can talk without distractions, which is rare today, he says.
Once, a film crew came in and asked Graham to cut the actors’ hair. He closed the shop. Sadly, he did not get to cut Richard Gere’s hair. He also cut the hair of Bill, who became Percy Sugden on TV.
Graham also manages properties. He started this to keep things interesting. The shop’s friendly atmosphere helps staff stay. His latest hire was four years ago, and he loves the shop. His son does too.
Gareth swept hair as a kid. Now, he enjoys being part of milestones, cutting hair for school and weddings. He has been there for 30 years. The shop is one of the last on King Street, where people stay when they work there.
Graham finished cutting John’s hair and showed off his anniversary display. It is in his old home behind the shop. There are photos and memories on the wall, and he is proud of his son’s work.
Graham points out that the staff keep it going. Chip Hanson arrived 30 years ago and is like family now. Liam Watts and Brad Cooper handle walk-ins. Graham’s Barber’s turned 50 on March 6. They hope it lasts another 50 years.