A SALON is celebrating a milestone birthday in business.

Zoe Chivers first opened Finishing Touches Salon on Newland Street, Witham, when she was just 19.

Now 17 years on, she is celebrating the anniversary of the opening of what she believes to be the longest-owned hairdressers in the town.

Witham MP Priti Patel paid a visit to the salon to help Zoe and sister Hayley Jackson celebrate.

Zoe said: “I have very vivid memories of starting up and being told that I wouldn’t make it or that I’d run the business into the ground, but we’re still here and I think we’ve done pretty well.

“Having Priti visit us has made this a very special anniversary.”

The sisters told Ms Patel about the history of the business before discussing the challenges they have face during the pandemic.

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The Conservative MP said:“I certainly understand the difficulties they have faced in the last 18 months but it is very encouraging to see how well they have coped and are bouncing back.

“They clearly have a loyal customer base, which is a testament to the quality of the services they offer.”