A MUCH-LOVED North Ayrshire hairdressers is shutting down after 40 years.

Ruth’s Hair Salon in Irvine will be closing permanently later this year, so that the owner, Ruth Duncan, can spend time with her family.

She has decided to retire at the age of 74, after owning and running the business for four decades.

It will open for the final time on Friday, October 25.

The salon is the longest-standing hairdressers in Irvine and has been a big part of the whole family’s lives, with Ruth’s grandchildren getting their first Saturday jobs working alongside her.

The family are also asking friends and clients to share their memories of Ruth so that they can make up a book for the business owner.

Ruth said: “I am sitting reminiscing on the last 40 years. The good, the bad, the sadness and the joy I have had in this shop. I have been one of the luckiest people in the world.

“I have met so many wonderful friends here past and present. Some of the saddest and happiest and funniest stories and times I have spent with you all.

"I thank each and every one of you for the love you have shown to me and my family and the girls that worked with me and became part of our extended family."