Dominic Gregory: Tributes flood in for popular hairdresser after sudden death

Dominic and some of his closest friends celebrating his 40th birthday: Mark Gregory, Dominic, Michael Stewart, Spencer Wood and David Brown

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Tributes have flooded in for an “amazing and talented” hairdresser who died unexpectedly on Tuesday morning (8 March).

Father and husband Dominic Gregory was just 40 when he died at his home in Newhey in the early hours of the morning, leaving behind his wife Helen, his five-year-old daughter, and a wide circle of friends who have come forward to honour the man they all describe as a “spirited, party man”.

Dominic was renowned in the community for his popular salon, Dominic Gregory Hair Establishment on Edenfield Road, where large bouquets of flowers have been laid in his memory.

Lifelong friend Mark Gregory had recently asked Dominic to be his best man for his forthcoming wedding. In a joint tribute between Mark and another close friend Dave Brown, they said: “Dominic was our best pal. When we try to describe him many words spring to mind, gregarious, generous, sincere and loud, but probably most of all he was generous. Not only materialistically but with his time, his words, his advice and his great big heart.

“One of Dave's fondest memories as one of Dom's closest friends was his 40th birthday at the Chefs Table at Manchester House. What a night that was. Mark had only recently asked him to be best man at his wedding next year and although heartbroken he won't be there - we know we'll raise a glass for him then and most probably a few more before that too. For us guys and for many more of his friends there will always be a toast for our charismatic, cheeky and loyal friend.”

Another long-term friend Michael Stewart said: “I knew Dom for nearly 20 years, in that time I've been divorced, separated, married, had children, lost children, had business, lost business and he was always there.

“Like everyone connected and those by extension the grief and pain at this moment in time is just unbearable. The tributes, pictures and stories just shows what an impact that man had on so many lives.

"It's been a few of the worst days imaginable thus far and I'm sure it's going to be tough yet for so many of us with the hole that's been left in all of our hearts.

"Who was Dominic? We all have our own reflections and memories and image of our friend but to me he was a complex man with so many talents.

“Love is a term thrown about but to know love and feel love for someone who was more family than friend is the best feeling. I just wish I got to tell him that one last time.

“Thank you to everyone who's sent support and the words of solace and comfort from some special people. Just absolutely floored but knowing that he touched so many lives brings some warmth and comfort and hope the same goes to his family and friends.”

Scott Warbuton, who had known Dominic for many years, said Dominic was always the man for a “belly laugh”. He added: “I’m devastated to have lost a friend, not sure if it will ever sink in that I'll never see him again, never enjoy a night out with him making me belly laugh on nights out and trips away.

“A person who could lift your spirits just by being in his company. The world has lost a great friend to a lot of people who was also a wonderful father and husband and an amazing talent in his profession and I and many other people will miss him but take so many fond and happy memories with them throughout their lives.”

Arrangements for Dominic’s funeral are still being made.