BEST SHOPKEEPER: Sue Pigott gets nominated for her hair salon

Sue Pigott has run Mister Peter Coiffeur ladies’ hair salon, in Cokeham Road, for 37 years, and has been nominated for the best shopkeeper category in this year’s awards.

This week, she said she was “surprised” on hearing the news but was pleased to be recognised.

She said: “We are like a family but it is a business also.

“We are quite a social salon and have a good time.”

She said many of her clients had stuck with the salon over the years and she said it was important to keep a close relationship with them.

“We had a lady in who was celebrating her 90th birthday so we bought a little gift and a card and they appreciate that and it makes them feel special.

“If we know of any celebration they have we make sure we celebrate it with them.”

Many of the staff have been with the business for years, with the majority of them starting as trainees.

Linda Mellors, 58, of Hurstfield, Lancing, has worked with Sue for almost 37 years and is the one who put her boss forward for the award.

She said: “It is such a happy salon as I am sure everyone who visits will agree.

“We all get on so well, we work and we have fun.

“It’s our job and we love it but only because of Sue.

“She is always there for you and will always do her best to help you whatever the problem.

“She spends her life doing things for other people.”

n Entries to nominate people for this year’s Community Stars award have been flooding in but there a few categories that need a boost.

These include the new arts and entertainment award, the award for best student and best sportsperson, as well as our awards for outstanding bravery and true inspiration.