ILMINSTER: Hanging up her tongs

The pair had worked together for 32 years and opened their Top Knots salon in Ditton Street, Ilminster, 21 years ago. Now Helen is continuing under the new name of Adorn with the same staff and a long list of loyal clients.

A special retirement party was held at the shop and the women were surprised how many people went along to wish them both well.

Mrs Wood said: “I didn’t realise how many clients we had until I started writing out the invitations.I would like to say a big thank you to Margaret and our husbands. In all the time we have worked together we have hardly had a cross word, it has been a pleasure and I hope you have a lovely retirement.”

Mrs Riste was all smiles, collecting cards and flowers from all directions.

She said: “I am totally overwhelmed. I shall miss the company and the clients, and being in partnership with Helen, we have got on so well but I shall be in and out.”

Mrs Riste said she would be spending more time with husband Graham, going on holiday and following the cricket which they both enjoy.

PICTURE: Margaret Riste and Helen Wood outside their business of 21 years

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