A LEOMINSTER businesswoman said she hopes to inspire other young entrepreneurs as she celebrates 25 years of trading.

Julia Thomas launched Headlines on Rainbow Street back in 1990 and she is set to mark the anniversary with a celebratory event at the salon next month.

The ladies hair design and barber shop employs five people and has been a hairdressing salon for more than 50 years with only two previous owners.

Ms Thomas said: "I still enjoy hairdressing so that's the most important thing. I'm born and bred in Leominster and it's just seeing all the local people. It's a great place to be, I love it. It's very sociable."

Ms Thomas said she hopes that her own success will show that despite a tough economic climate, hard-work and determination can prove to be rewarding.

"I'm just trying to give something back and cheer people on," she added.

"I think people just need to stop feeling sorry for themselves, that's my message to everyone. Don't forget we are there for the customers not the other way round. That's what I always think is so important. We're there to serve people and that's a big message to get out."

The anniversary party is set to take place on October 16, with people invited to drop in throughout the day for coffee and cake.

A draw will also be held on the day and regulars are currently being asked to vote for the charity they want the funds raised through that to go to.