Four generations of Cork family visit ‘Baldy Barber’ ahead of wedding 

A CORK man who has been visiting the same barbershop for almost 90 years took the family tradition to another level yesterday as he prepared for his grandson’s wedding.

Michael O’Brien, who is known for being the longest-serving and most loyal customer of ‘The Baldy Barber’ in Blackpool, had three generations in tow when he arrived at the shop yesterday.

He was joined by his daughter Yvonne Blake and grandson Patrick Blake — the groom — as well as his two great grandsons, Patrick’s nephews Alex and Blake Twomey.

Patrick and his nephews are also valued customers of Mick Moriarty’s and have been visiting the barbershop since they were babies.

Mick Moriarty gifted Patrick a bottle of whiskey ahead of his nuptials to bride Avi Detphichai in Vienna Woods today.

Alex and Blake were presented with teddy bears to remember the special occasions.

It comes almost 90 years after Michael O’Brien had his first haircut at the shop by Mick Moriarty Sr.

His granddaughter, Mary Twomey, explained their special connection to the barbershop.

“My grandad’s father used to work for Doscos where he made the brushes for Mick Moriarty Sr,” she said.

“It meant they got a cheaper rate for their haircuts. Grandad got his first haircut there as a child and has been going there ever since.”

Mick Moriarty described customers such as Michael as the “backbone of his business”.

“Repeat business is so important to us,” he said.

“Michael has been coming to us for so long now. For years he had the most jet-black hair that never seemed to go grey. He never needed colour.

“All he ever used was a bit of Bryl-creem. He might have got a few greys since but he still has a good head of hair.”

Mick said he is delighted they made time to visit him for haircuts ahead of Patrick’s big day.

“I’m delighted they all came together,” he said. “It really was a lovely gesture.

“The business has a real family vibe and we are happy to see the next generation coming in to get haircuts and hot shaves with us.”