A Marlow barber who was forced into retirement due to the pandemic as well as being diagnosed with cancer, has received a sufficient amount of money from members of the public.

Richard Silver, who ran the Marlow barber shop on Station Road for 54 years, closed his shop for good at the start of May after he could no longer sustain his business with four months of no work, whilst still having to pay business rates and rent.

READ MORE: 'A sad day': Legendary Marlow barber Richard Silver shuts up shop after 54 years

The news was met with sadness with people in the town, but thanks to Marlow resident Dave Pering, he set up a Just Giving page and asked those who knew Richard to donate to him, as one last thank you.

On the Just Giving page, it said: “We’re raising £500 to help Richard Silver who after 54 years serving Marlow, has unexpectedly had to close his barbershop due to illness and the Covid-19 lockdown.

“Let’s all give Richard one last haircut payment to help him in his enforced retirement.

“My last haircut there cost me £9 as a guide but any amount would be gratefully received.

“Thank you and let’s support this legend.”

Amazingly, £3,000 was raised for one of Marlow’s favourite sons.

Speaking on July 13, Dave said: “Well done Marlovians and thank you.

“A cheque for £3,000 has now landed in Richard Silvers hands.

READ MORE: Much loved Marlow barber retires after 54 years in service

“The same hands that served Marlow well for 54 years until his unexpected shop closure

“Marlow you did him proud.

“Richard says a huge thank you.

“Now go enjoy your deserved retirement, Richard.”

Richard, who confirmed to the Free Press that he was suffering from esophagus cancer, began his apprenticeship in High Wycombe in the early 1960s and originally had a shop on the Marlow High Street with his father before the duo moved to Station Road in 1966.

The barber is known for having Manchester United memorabilia in his shop as well as having regular and loyal customers who attended his business for years.

READ MORE: Marlow resident sets up Just Giving page for 'legend' barber

The much-loved hairdresser has also cut the hair of certain celebrities which include the likes of Sir Steve Redgrave and his father, the late sports commentator Raymond Glendenning, the late band leader Eric Robinson and most notably the actor Tom Chambers, with the latter starring in Waterloo Road, Holby City, Casualty and Emmerdale.

Richard, who spoke exclusively to the Free Press back in May following his announcement, said: “I still had a customer who came to me when I first started my apprenticeship in High Wycombe and that was 58 years ago!

“So that’s not bad!”