Much loved Marlow barber retires after 54 years in service

Richard Silver, who opened his well-loved barbershop on Station Road on May 16, 1966, confirmed at the start of the month that due to his own health issues as well as the current coronavirus pandemic, his popular shop has shut.

READ MORE: 'Enjoy your retirement' - Marlow residents thank popular barber who closes after 54 years

The barber said he could no longer sustain his business with four months out of work but still having to pay business rates, and rent and thanked his customers past and present for their support over the years.

Mr Silver also confirmed that he is currently being treated for esophagus cancer.

Speaking exclusively to the Free Press, the popular barber, who has cut the hair of many local celebrities, said: “I had no chance because when you get told you have cancer it’s like, ‘oh, ok’ but I am more bothered about not having to work because the chemo I’ve been having means I can’t go near anyone.

Richard inside his shop with his Manchester United memorabilia 

“Even with a mask on, I can’t go near anybody and if that’s not bad enough, we’ve got this virus going around and that’s even worse for me.

READ MORE: Marlow resident sets up Just Giving page for 'legend' barber

“I thought that the day I’d stop cutting hair will be the day I drop.”

“But I am so overwhelmed at the kindness and generosity being shown towards me by my loyal customers and friends.

“I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

The 72-year-old, who is an avid Manchester United fan, is known for decking out his shop in his team’s colours, as he has donned the premises with several pieces of Red Devils memorabilia.

He began his apprenticeship in High Wycombe in the early 1960s and originally had a shop on the Marlow High Street with his father before the duo moved to Station Road in 1966.

The much-loved hairdresser has also cut the hair of certain celebrities which include the likes of Sir Steve Redgrave and his father, the late sports commentator Raymond Glendenning, the late band leader Eric Robinson and most notably the actor Tom Chambers, with the latter starring in Waterloo Road, Holby City, Casualty and Emmerdale.

Chambers also won the 2008 series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Richard standing outside his shop

READ MORE: 'A sad day': Legendary Marlow barber Richard Silver shuts up shop after 54 years

Richard continued: “My shop has been the same for the 54 years and it’s been decked out in red and white for Man United where people have donated footballs and shirts.

“And everyone that comes into my shop is the same - they all get a decent haircut!

“And I still have a customer who comes to me when I first started my apprenticeship in High Wycombe and that was 58 years ago!

“So that’s not bad!”

Following the news, a Just Giving page has been set up to help the popular barber. 

To donate, click here.