A BARBER shop in Alloa last week marked 25 years in business with a thank you issued to loyal customers who made it all possible.

Not only have Mayfair Gents' Barbers co-owners Susan Cowie and Yvonne Ferguson been in business together for two and a half decades, the shop has stayed at the same Primrose Street premises for the full 25 years.

Susan and Yvonne, originally from Grangemouth, have known each other since their school days and took a plunge when they opened Mayfair together back in 1996.

They never looked back and credited their loyal customer base for their success.

Yvonne, reflecting on the biggest challenges of the past 25 years, said: "The amount of barber shops popping up everywhere in Alloa town centre has been the biggest challenge, but the fact that we have managed to keep a large, loyal customer base is an achievement we are both proud of."

The duo welcomed clients back last month after the Stay at Home order was lifted in Scotland.

The re-opening came after 14 weeks in lockdown and the pair were keen to open the doors again to customers, many of whom have been sporting DIY cuts.

The barber shop has also seen a facelift last month with new flooring and chairs put in place.

Undeniably, 2020 has been one of the most challenging years since the barbers opened their doors under 34 Primrose Street.

Co-owner Susan said: "We both enjoy the social side of the job.

"Meeting people from all walks of life and making them look better makes every day different.

"We loved having our own business from the very first day and we are still enjoying it today despite one of the most stressful years ever."

Susan also wanted to pay tribute to those who made the past 25 years possible.

She added: "We want to thank all our loyal customers new and old for their loyalty and patience over this last difficult year.

"We appreciate everyone who has supported us and look forward to the next 25 years in business."