HAIRDRESSER Christine Wescombe is celebrating 50 years in the business, during which time she has tended to thousands of people’s locks.

Her very first client from 1963, 96- year-old Betty Cook, still visits for regular appointments.

Self-employed Christine, 66, works from home in Midford Road, Taunton, converting her dining room into a salon during the day.

She said: “I’ve done thousands and thousands of hair-dos over 50 years.

“Betty has been with me throughout since I started in a salon in Eastleigh Road – she says she can still remember me walking through the door on my first day.

“I’m still going strong today, fully booked and with no intention of retiring.

“Hairdressing is a lovely career, and my clients and I have got to share all our ups and downs over the years.”

Betty Cook said: “I remember Christine with her blonde curly hair walking into the salon in Eastleigh Road on her first day, and I’ve never wanted anyone else to do my hair since.”