Southport Hairdressing Icon Celebrates Over 60 Years in the Industry

DORA Fletcher, the 89 year old proprietor of Dora's Hair Fashions, in Southport, has been recognised by the National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF) for her extraordinary contribution to the hairdressing industry spanning over 6 decades.

In a special recognition visit on:- 25 September 2024, the Caroline Larissey the Chief Executive of the NHBF visited Dora's Hair Fashions to commemorate what was initially thought to be Dora's 50th year of membership. However, upon reviewing records, it was revealed that Dora has actually been a part of the NHBF for more than 60 years.

"Meeting Dora Fletcher in person was truly inspiring. Her dedication to her craft and her clients over more than 6 decades is remarkable. Dora's salon is a treasure trove of our industry's heritage, embodying decades of hairdressing history and tradition." said Caroline Larissey Chief Executive of the NHBF.

During the visit, Dora shared memories from her illustrious career, including:- her triumph as the Yorkshire Cup winner in the 1961 hairdressing competition. Remarkably, this cup is 1 of the few historical artifacts preserved by the NHBF and is currently displayed in the Chief Executive's office.

Caroline Larissey said:- "It was an honour to see Dora's photographs and memorabilia, especially the 1 with the Yorkshire Cup from 1962," Caroline added:- "Finding Dora's name on that very cup in my office after the visit was a special moment that connected her remarkable achievement to our organisation's history."

Dora's Hair Fashions continues to serve the Southport community, with Dora herself still actively working at:- 89 years old. Her salon stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of personalized, high quality hairdressing services.

Gemma Collins, Lemar and Toploader make it a Christmas to remember in Southport

ON Saturday, 23 November 2024, Southport Town Centre will be awash with entertainment and activities to welcome in the Christmas season.

The focal point will be an incredible live show staged, on:- Lord Street, Southport. The event will feature a jam packed line up including:- local dance groups, character shows, pantomime fun, and 3 very special guests.

Last week, it was confirmed that Gemma Collins will be joining the hosts to spread some Christmas sparkle.

If that wasn't enough, both Lemar and Toploader will be taking to the stage to provide a captivating finale to a day of festive celebration.

After rising to stardom on the BBC's Fame Academy, Lemar has gone on to become 1 of the most successful British male solo artists of the last decade.

The award winning solo artist has 7 UK hit singles to his name and will perform in Southport, off the back of a sold out tour earlier in 2024. His awards include:- 3 MOBO Awards (2 for Best UK male and 1 for Best Album) and 2 BRIT Awards for Best British Urban Act.

UK favourites Toploader will then be closing out the festivities in style.

The band have close to 1 billion streams across platforms and are best known for their smash hit:- 'Dancing in the Moonlight,' taken from their debut album:- 'Onka's Big Moka.'

Rachel Fitzgerald, Southport BID CEO, said:- "This year's Festive Fun Day is shaping up to be an extraordinary event. We're delighted to be joined by special guests Toploader, Lemar, and Gemma Collins. We can't wait to see these big names perform, but this day is as much about celebrating our Town and the people that make it special. A big focus of the Festive Fun Day is championing our incredible young people. Fourteen local dance Schools are set to perform on stage. Do join us in Southport on:- 23 November 2024, for a fantastic day out, and make sure to spend some time with our wonderful Town Centre businesses whilst you're here!"

The event will be hosted by much loved Southport performer Kelly Bond, and Alex Toal of Greatest Hits Radio, who will entertain the crowds with a special DJ set later in the day.

Festive fairground attractions will delight the crowds, and fun activities such as:- facepainting and creative workshops will prove to be popular attractions.

Local businesses will also be joining in the fun. Visitors can enjoy festive markets at:- The Atkinson and Cambridge Walks, Christmas Grotto's at The Vincent Hotel and Wayfarers arcade, as well as lots more to be announced.

The Fun Day performances will take place on:- Lord Street between:- 12.00 and 18.30, on:- Saturday, 23 November 2024.

The Festive Fun Day is being organised by Southport BID and Sefton Council.

The full line up for the live show is as follows:-

12.00 Special Guests TBA; PQA Southport; The So Talented Academy of Theatre Arts; The 2 Jays; Princess Popstar Show (by Regally Royal)
13.00 Funky Monkees; The Dance Place; Snow White (by Southport Dramatic Club); Magic Movers; Zanobini Academy of Performing Arts.
14.00 Frozen Singalong Show (by Regally Royal); Voice Plus Academy Of Arts; Serenos School of Dance; Sleeping Beauty (by KD Theatre)
15.00 DBA School of Dance / Baby Ballet; The Grinch; Express Performing Arts; Gemma Collins- Spiderman; Rapunzel (by All Souls Dramatic Club)
16.00 Central Dance and Drama; Lemar; King's School of Dance; Wright's Performing Arts.
17.00 Alex Toal DJ set; Toploader.