A HAIRDRESSER who has run a Kidderminster salon for more than 30 years has retired to spend more time travelling abroad.

Ann Markham, 58, of Offmore Farm, finished working at the Wavelength hair salon in Sion Hill, on Saturday, after 34 years as manager.

As her husband is also retired, the couple have bought a house in Spain and hope to visit their daughter, who is living in Australia.

Mrs Markham said she was happy to be retiring, explaining: "I think it is the right time. I am ready to leave now."

She added the best part of her job had been meeting all her customers.

"I have loved doing my job, I've liked meeting all the people and seeing all the families growing up around here," she said. "I received lots of cards from people, which was nice.

"I have enjoyed working with all my staff and I will miss them but I'll still come here and have my hair done."

She added: "I would like to say thank you to all my clients who have stayed loyal to me over the years."

After moving to Kidderminster in 1968, Mrs Markham worked in two salons before owning Wavelength.

Mrs Markham will be passing her job on to Jonathan Hayward, who has worked at the salon for 18 years, and there will also be a new junior hairdresser joining the salon's three full-time members of staff.