Sheffield Barbershop's Historic Ties to Snooker Stars
In Sheffield, a city renowned for its steel and sporting heritage, a razor-sharp cut in April often signals more than just a visit to the barber. Just a short stroll from the iconic Crucible Theatre, where the World Snooker Championship unfolds, lies Taylor Taylor Barbershop, an establishment with a legacy stretching back to 1907. This makes it two decades older than the championship itself, embedding it deeply in the fabric of the local community and the snooker world.
A Snooker Enthusiast's Dream Workplace
Luke Linacre, a barber at both Taylor Taylor locations on Surrey Street and Division Street, has been with the shop for 16 years. His passion for snooker began during his interview, coinciding with the World Championship qualifiers. "One of the first haircuts I remember doing was for Neal Foulds," Linacre recalls. "It drew me into working here straight away!" Over the years, he has trimmed the hair of numerous top players, including Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins, Shaun Murphy, Judd Trump, Ryan Day, and Rob Walker, as well as referees and commentators like Jimmy White.
Ronnie O'Sullivan: The Idol Who Surprised
For Linacre, a devoted snooker fan, meeting Ronnie O'Sullivan was a surreal highlight. "Ronnie is my idol," he beams. Contrary to popular perceptions of O'Sullivan as reserved, Linacre found him exceptionally chatty. "People often say Ronnie doesn't come across as wanting to talk to you, but it couldn't have been further from the truth. I couldn't stop him talking!" Their conversation ranged from Chinese hot pots to running, showcasing a side of the snooker legend rarely seen by the public.
Humorous Encounters and Regular Visitors
The barbershop's atmosphere is light-hearted, with amusing anecdotes from Linacre's colleagues. One co-worker, unaware of snooker, regularly cuts Steve Davis's hair and always asks if he's off to work afterward, a joke Davis enjoys. Similarly, when Shaun Murphy arrived with a cue, a staff member mistakenly directed him to the Crucible, to which Murphy replied, "I know, I've just played!" Another regular, John Parrott, the 1991 world champion, is a close friend of the shop, having gifted a picture from his championship win.
Future of the Championship in Sheffield
Recent uncertainty about the World Championship's future in Sheffield has been resolved, with confirmation it will remain at the Crucible until 2045. Linacre and his team are thrilled, as the event brings a vibrant energy to the city. "It's just a brilliant time to be around," he says, noting that players and fans alike cherish the Sheffield experience. The partnership with Midnite, the UK betting and casino sponsor, continues to enhance fan engagement during the 17-day championship, supporting the sport's growth.
Taylor Taylor Barbershop stands as a testament to Sheffield's enduring connection to snooker, blending history, community, and the personal stories of those who shape the game.
