AN AYR hairdresser has taken the decision to close after 33 years as the ‘risks are too high’ in returning after lockdown.

John McGinn, 62, took the heartfelt decision to close FrancisJohn on the Sandgate to protect their staff and much loved clients.

John, along with business partner Jim Morgan, broke the news to staff last week over a Zoom call and have vowed to support them find work.

John told the Advertiser: “It’s a very sad situation but I had to think of safeguarding our staff and customers.

“When we looked at it the risks were too high.

“With the measures we would have to take under the guidelines, we would have had to have charged at least double.

“People say there’s going to be a high demand for hairdressers, but we won’t be able to get the numbers in.

“The whole point of coming to get your hair done is a nice relaxing experience. We wouldn’t be able to serve coffee, we’d have to wear protection, a face visor, gloves. It wouldn’t be the same, all those things will be taken away.”

The co-owners felt they had no choice fearing a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic could wreak havoc with the hair and beauty industry.

John added: “It’s been said there’s the possibility of a second wave in October or November.

“What happens if we end up in lockdown again?.

“My biggest fear would be someone coming into the salon with the virus, it’s not worth the risk.”

“Until we get a cure or a antibodies, or a vaccine it’s going to be very tough on the industry.

“We might be the first well known business to take the tough decision, but I would be very surprised if we’re the last.”

John has been humbled by the kind messages of support sent to the business.

FrancisJohn has been going for 42 years, with their popular Ayr salon taking up the largest chunk of that time.

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