Tony helps school ski trip dream come true

Date published: 21 January 2010

A leading hairdresser is hoping to bow out in style by raising vital funds to send disabled and disadvantaged children on the trip of a lifetime. 

Antony and Patricia owner Tony Winder is hanging up his scissors after more than 40 years and is auctioning his final 10 haircuts to the highest bidders. The money raised will then be used to send pupils at Tor View Community Special School on a skiing trip to Switzerland, and to support a new ski group the school has set up. 

Tony, who is a keen skier himself, says: “I wanted to do something memorable on my last day in the salon. When I heard the school needed funding to support a ski trip to Switzerland, I really wanted to help. 

“It will be a great experience for the children. I do a lot of work with young people as part of my councillor duties and feel it’s important to increase children’s involvement in sporting activities.” 

The Haslingden school was touched by the generosity shown by Tony. Headteacher Andy Squire said: “The donation will be a fantastic help towards the coaching and allowing the disadvantaged pupils who’s families can’t afford the to fund the trip. 

“We have recently started up a Special Olympics Ski Group at Ski Rossendale for the pupils and the donation will also help to pay for the coaching, equipment and travel when the group becomes involved in competitions. The pupils have learning difficulties and physical or sensory problems but giving them continuing opportunities helps them develop their physical fitness and encourages them to work together.” 

Tony’s final day of snipping hair will be Saturday February 6th – the day before he celebrates his 63rd birthday. 

Tony, who first opened the Rawtenstall salon in 1969, adds: “I have built up some valuable friendships with clients over the years and I’m touched by their support, particularly in backing such a great cause.” 

Antony and Patricia opened the doors to its first home in Newchurch Road, Rawtenstall 41 years ago, before Tony and then partner Patricia moved the salon to Bank Street, three years later. It has since become a Rawtenstall institution, serving clients across the Valley and from all across the North West.