Go to hairdresser of Watford FC legends retires after 44 years running his popular salon in north Watford

Richard Liska, 68, hairdresser to Graham Taylor, Alan Mayes, Roger Joslyn and Bobby Downes started Richard Hair Fashions in Courtlands Drive at the age of 24.

A huge Hornets fan, in the mid-1970s Mr Liska had several footballer clients and flew on Concorde with the team.

He said: “I’ve cut hair for a few footballers, including Graham Taylor, Alan Mayes, Roger Joslyn and Bobby Downes. Actually, it was through Bobby Downes I became acquainted with my wife, Sue. We’ve been married for nearly 39 years now. She’s been such a great support over the years.”

As a prominent business owner in Watford Mr Liska, who lives near Hemel Hempstead, also served on the town’s Chamber of Commerce for 25 years - holding its presidency for two years.

Throughout his career he has sat on crime prevention committees, the Leavesden airport consultation committee and been involved in Shopmobility.

He maintains a strong belief town businesses should be involved and give back to their community.

Mr Liska said: “From very early stage I thought it would be a good idea to get involved in local issues. I think it’s important for any local shop to put something back into the community.”

Mr Liska started in hairdressing as a Saturday boy at 14. He left school at 15 and began an apprenticeship.

After a brief stint in catering, he returned to hairdressing at the age of 21.

Mr Liska said: “I’d decided it was time to look to the future and thought the possibility of becoming my own boss would be a good thing. I worked in a number of salons in Gerrards Cross – trying to learn everything I could. I used to go round and cut Roy Castle’s hair in his house.

“I moved to Chorleywood and opened the salon in Courtlands Drive.”

Over the years, Mr Liska said his staff had been invaluable and regular customers had become friends as well as clients.

He said: “For 20 odd years I’ve had two excellent staff with me who have made my life a lot easier. I will miss my customers – many of who over the years have become my friends as well as my customers. But I’ve had the salon for 44 years now. I’m nearly 69, someone made me an offer and I thought it was a good time to retire - in good health so I get to enjoy it.”