A local barbershop that has been running for more than two decades has announced it will have to close in the new year after struggling to stay afloat amid the cost-of-living crisis.

The Clip Joint situated on Lees Road has announced in an emotional post on social media that it has been forced to close its doors on new year's eve by rising energy bills.

The barbers said the cost-of-living crisis means it is "no longer possible to run a profitable business in Oldham" and has said some of its staff members - and loyal customers - will instead be found in its Bury shop on Bell Lane.

Staff members Pete, Lee and Loran said the decision to close on December 31 was "not an easy one" and has been made with a "heavy heart" after standing firm in Oldham for more than 21 years.

Staff said they have struggled to keep the Oldham store open in the past few years having weathered a storm of "unexpected challenges" to the business like so many in the current economic climate.

However, the difficult situation brought on by rising energy bills has left The Clip Joint with no option but to close for good.

In a statement on social media, the barbershop thanked its loyal customers, both old and new, who "have been with us for the ride".

"Without you, we wouldn't have survived the last 21 years or indeed have made so many good memories along the way.

"Thank you for the belly laughs, friendships, support and good times we have shared with you all and we will cherish the memories forever", the post added.

But the post also revealed Pete, the "well-loved face of Oldham for the last ten years", will not be relocating to the Bury store with the barbershop wishing him the best of luck in his next new chapter.

Manager Lee, who has regular customers spanning more than two decades in Oldham, will be working in the Bury store.

The post added: "It is testament to the great Oldham customers, and also frankly for Lee being such a good boss, there there was such a small turnover of staff over the years and you all contributed to the success of the business.

"We know a good number of our Oldham customers will be making the 21-minute drive to the Bury shop (which has been fact-checked on Google maps door to door) to hear Lee strumming ‘classics’ on his guitar and catch him out having his post lunch power nap.

"Thank you for your continued support, you all really are the best."