Norm looks sharp for big occasion

It was a special moment for Bunbury man Richard ‘Norm’ Eaton, celebrating his 100th birthday a month early with a free haircut and shave as promised by barber and friend Leo Gaudio on Thursday.

Mr Gaudio has been cutting Mr Eaton’s hair for more than 20 years and said if he reached the great milestone he would offer Mr Eaton a free haircut and shave.

“I’ve known Norm for a long time and 10 years ago when he turned 90 I said when you turn 100 I’m going to give you a free hair cut and free shave and the newspaper will be here – and this is what has happened today,” Mr Gaudio said.

“He doesn’t turn 100 for another two weeks, but I will be on holidays so we had to do it today.

“He’s been such a great customer and a gentlemen and a half.”

Mr Eaton said he had been having his hair cut on a regular basis with Mr Gaudio since he arrived in Bunbury and was thrilled to have Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan join him on this special occasion.

“I get my hair cut once a month, I’m a regular – been here every month for 20 years,” Mr Eaton said.

“Of course it’s nice, he’s a nice man.”

Mr Eaton’s official 100th birthday celebrations will kick off on August 17 and he said he had lots of partying ahead of him.

“My party is being held at the Sanctuary Golf Resort,” he said.

“We are having the official party at midday and then a family party at half past four.

“I’ve been a busy man all my life, I had 10 children. Now I have 25 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren so I had to have a special party for the family and friends.”

Mr Eaton will turn 100 on August 19.