Salon celebrates 25 years in Rochdale town centre

A 23-year old Greg Couzens at the opening of his hair salon in 1983.

A town centre hair salon is celebrating a quarter of a century in business in Rochdale Town Centre.

Spotland and Falinge ward councillor Gregory Couzens set up his salon on the Walk in 1983 and is celebrating 25 years of trading this month.

Greg said: "I opened the salon as a terrified young man; I had no idea at the time if it was going to be a success or not, fortunately I have had 25 wonderful years."

He was just 23 years old when he started business. From those early days Councillor Couzens went on to become a three times finalist in the 'Hairdresser of The Year' trade awards.

Other highlights include presenting 'The Clothes Show' in front of thousands of people and earning a civic award for the victorian gothic style of the salon.

Greg also has his own range of shampoos and conditioners and spent ten years travelling the country teaching his philosophies on hair and business.

His work has appeared in numerous magazines, with Greg taking the photographs himself and using models from Rochdale.

The salon was also nominated for the Best Long Serving Business Award at this month's Rochdale Town Centre Business Awards.

"I'm looking forward to another 25 years," said Greg. "I love my profession and I love Rochdale people.

"I would definitely do it all over again.

"I have had the privilege of meeting a lot of clients that I now consider good friends.

"As for my team, I cannot thank them enough, they are a pleasure to work with."