People of Hastings & St Leonards
Mike and Sue Shaw
In a new series sharing stories of people of the town, Kathryn Sutter spoke to Mike and Sue Shaw of
Shaws Hair Stylists, one of the oldest family businesses on Norman Road.
CREDIT: Kathryn Sutter
“We run Shaws the hairdressers which has been in Norman Road, and the family, since 1946. Mike’s father started the business. Mike joined when he was 15, followed by his brother Bernard who sadly passed away four years ago.
Sixty-two years later Mike and I continue working, I out the back for ladies and Mike barbering at the front,” explains Sue.
“The best thing about the work is the camaraderie. I’ve known some of my customers for as long as I have worked here. We are all growing old together.” adds Mike.
“We’ve seen the area change a lot over the years. It’s strange to think that there used to be a Woolworths on Kings Road! However, we think it’s good the area has changed, the galleries bring people to the town. One of the best things about the town is the sense of community, we’re always working towards this. Our jobs give us purpose and
we have no plans to retire just yet!”
• Find Mike and Sue at Shaws, 44 Norman Road, St Leonards-on-Sea.
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