Residents have paid tribute to a 'local legend' barber following his retirement after 30 years in a Buckinghamshire town.

Filippo Festa, 81, moved to Hazlemere, High Wycombe, from Naples, Italy, over 60 years ago and set up his barbershop, Filippo's, on Rose Avenue in 1990.

Filippo - nicknamed 'Fil' by his friends and colleagues - stepped back to a part-time role at the shop in 2020 and hung up his scissors for good at the end of December, handing the reins over to John Philips, whose name the business has now assumed.

Speaking to the Free Press last month, Filippo said he had had a "good life" in the town and was looking forward to spending more time with his family - including his new-born granddaughter - in his retirement.

The 81-year-old will undoubtedly be missed by cross-generational members of the community, with some of his former customers and employees sharing their memories of and well-wishes for the 'local legend'.

Colin Steed said: "Thanks for all the jokes, Fil. Miss you a lot since I moved. Stay well and enjoy your family time."

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Gregg Langley described Filippo as an "absolute local legend (and) such a nice guy", while Hannah Messer wrote: "One of the kindest humans. (I) worked with him as one of my first jobs, (he) showed such kindness and care.

"He still remembers me and my family (and) I went on to own my own salon."

Sam Wilson also reminisced on being taken under the 81-year-old's wing, writing: "Happy retirement and thank you (for) having me to do my work experience many years ago" and Naresh Sharma added: "Happy retirement to a gentleman who is well loved".