A BASINGSTOKE hair salon which specialises in cuts for children has gone into liquidation because of the impact of Covid-19.

His and Kids announced yesterday that the branch in Festival Place was closing “from immediate effect”.

A statement from the company, which also has branches in Chandlers Ford, Fareham and Romsey, said: “Due to the significant impact of Covid-19 on the business and ongoing future uncertainty, HJK limited appointed liquidators on Friday 11 September 2020. As a direct result the Basingstoke salon has ceased trading from Saturday 12 September.”

It apologised to customers who had appointments booked, and thanked clients for their support over the years, describing yesterday as a “sad day for us”.

His and Kids shops were established in 2007, and since then the company has carried out more than 640,000 haircuts.

Its kids’ section is designed with children in mind, with themed chairs for them to sit in while watching a film or television show.

For children having their first haircut, the salon gave out special certificates to mark the occasion.

Posting on social media, Holli Darmondy who worked in the Basingstoke salon, said: “There’s many reasons why I worked in this salon for 11.5 years. The bosses, the staff and of course the customers. Absolutely gutted but made lifelong friends. Huge hugs and kisses to my amazing bosses who have had lots of stress since lockdown. Will miss you.”

Aliyah Way added: “Such sad news, was a great company to work for, for the last three years.”

Customers also reacted with sadness to the news, many of whom have taken their children there for haircuts since a young age.

Chris Siemaszko posted: “Absolutely gutted to hear this. The only hairdressers my two young sones have ever known and they loved it. Everyone was always great with them. Best wishes to all the staff for the future.”

Anna Baker added: “This is such sad news. My son has been getting his hair cut by Veronica since he was one.”

Jason Glover said: “Absolutely gutted for the folks there. My son and I have been customers for years and I’ve been back a few times since lockdown. No idea where to go now.”