City barber in 'sad' farewell to loyal clients after almost 60 years
A barber who shaved his way into the hearts of his Edinburgh clients has said an emotional farewell as the business prepares to close its doors after almost 60 years.
Benny's, on Grove Street in the Fountainbridge area, styled the hair of generations of locals since opening its doors in 1966.
The shop, which described itself as a traditional Italian style men's barbers, cut the locks of locals and celebrities alike – including the Proclaimers.
Benny Vettese, 81, who ran the barbers with son-in-law Tony Celini, described the closing of the shop as 'sad'. STV News Benny has cut hair in Fountainbridge for 60 years.
'It's been great to be here and I'll miss it because you know, I've been here over 59 years,' he said.
'The street has changed so much. I've been here since 1966. Sean Connery used to live around the corner.
'You build a friendship, you have a wee blether, you don't just cut the hair. You make a friendship, and that's what keeps the business going.
'It's a long, long time. It is a bit sad I would say, you know, but at the same time, well, I'm 81 years old.
'You know, my son in law doesn't want to take the shop over here. And I say, well, it's come to an end.'
Tony Celini, Benny's son-in-law, added: 'It's been enjoyable. I've made of lots of friends through customers.
'It's such an amazing place, and my father in law and myself have always treated our customers properly.
'It's a bit emotional but there are certain things in life that are more important than work.'
Benny and Tony will put down their combs and scissors for the final time on Wednesday, April 30. STV News Benny's will officially shut on Wednesday.
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