A HAIRDRESSER is marking his fiftieth year of trading in the town.

Colin Newman, of Marc Jordan Hair Salon on Albert Road, has officially been working as a hairdresser in Penarth for half a century.

The 73-year-old began working at a salon in Windsor Terrace at the age of 23, before moving to his current location on the corner of Albert Road and Plassey Street.

He still has a number of clients from his first days as a hairdresser, and works alongside staff he trained himself.

He moved to the larger premises 17 years ago last month, and said he has never thought about retiring.

"I never thought I would still be here when I started in 1967," he added.

"The shops in the town have changed and the people have too.

"There are a lot more hairdressers in the town now than when I started."

But Mr Newman says he still looks forward to coming into work everyday which is why he keeps doing it.

"I still enjoy coming into work and I have enjoyed my time in Penarth," he added.

"It does not feel like work as we have a laugh and the clients feel more like friends.

A special party is being arranged to mark the milestone on April 19.