Roy completed his training, as a barber, in these premises when he was a mere lad, before spending a short time working for the county, but he still retained his skills cutting hair at the weekend and then took over the shop from his 'mentor' on his retirement.

The barber's chair has always been like a confessional booth, with men going in with their moans, ideas and general chit chat, but he was always polite, friendly and listened without comment or spreading gossip to others.

The secrets he must know about Matlock!

He always had the time to ask about family or other problems that may have come up at the previous visit.

In his time he must have cut hair for grandfathers, fathers and sons and their sons and in some cases their sons.

Roy, all of your friends will miss you.

I know you live in Ripley but don't forget to come over to this wonderful county town of ours and see us a few times and make sure your successor is looking after us (I'm sure he will).

We hope you, with your family, have a long, healthy and happy retirement.

Barrie Tipping
Hawleys Close
Matlock