There was cause for celebration at a hair salon in St Ives earlier this month, as the business marked its 50th anniversary of trading in the town.

The Hunts Post: Armando Nigro celebrating 50 years in business in St Ives.Armando Nigro celebrating 50 years in business in St Ives. (Image: Archant)

Armando’s, in Bridge Street , first opened its doors on November 11, 1966, after owner, Armando Nigro, arrived in the UK from Italy in 1962.

“After four years in England, working for Ernest MacMasters for two of those four years, my work permit expired and I decided to go self-employed,” he said.

Since then, the businessman says he’s seen lots of changes at the salon, which employs six people, but he still enjoys working.

He even hopes to pass Armando’s down the family line, with his son, Maurizio, 43, currently working there, and 21-year-old grandson, Mario, now learning the trade.

“The secret is just to work very hard and get on. It doesn’t matter how old you are, you can always improve yourself,” he said.

“I’m 73 and I still enjoy keeping my hand in the business and meeting people and cutting hair. It’s lovely.”