BUSINESSMAN John Wright, owner of Victoria Antiques in Shanklin, only retired for six weeks before deciding to go back to the world of work.

He turns 80 on Saturday (October 9) and is still working in the arena of antiques and coins, which he finds fascinating.

John started his work life as a hairdresser in 1957, owning several mainland salons, before moving to the Island in the mid 1960s.

During his first stay on the Island, John owned a sweet shop and then a hairdresser salon – which he later turned into a bottle museum with a friend.

John later moved to East Grinstead and bought a salon (at one point he owned five salons), and during this time got into coins and travelling to places such as Chicago to participate in coin fairs.

When he was 65, he decided to sell up, move back to the Island, and retire.

However, John was only retired for six weeks before owning another salon, which he later turned into an antique shop.

Since then, he has opened his current shop on Regent Street in Shanklin — Victoria Antiques.

John, who has four children, will celebrate his birthday with his family, including his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Isle of Wight County Press: John has owned many businesses in Shanklin.