Tributes have flooded in to a “charming” barbershop owner who ran his business for more than 40 years.

Gordon Johnson, who set up Mr Snips in Tankerton High Street, near Whitstable, in 1977, was a popular figure in the community and became recognised for his charity work in the area.

He was tragically diagnosed with leukaemia after falling ill on the first day of reopening following the first coronavirus lockdown.

He was given just six months to live but survived for more than a year, spending his time creating joyful memories with friends and family.

His friend and colleague John Lynch said: “He was very charming and his personality was unbelievable.

“He could go out and be the centre of attention easily.

“When I opened my business in Seasalter, he came in during the first few weeks to introduce himself and then arranged a meeting with the local hairdressers he knew.

“I thought, ‘what a lovely introduction’.”

Mr Johnson enjoyed sport, fine dining and cruises, particularly to the Bahamas.

After setting up his business, he soon became involved in the town and joined the Board of the Chamber of Commerce before he was asked to coach the football team at Whitstable Youth Club.

In 1996, he became a member of the Rotary Club of Whitstable and became its president in 2002.

A tribute issued by the club said: “Gordon continued to support a raft of local groups and causes throughout his varied and, some would say, colourful life.

“He always had a smile on his face, would listen to anyone and help if he could.”

He also supported the Special Needs Advisory and Activities Project, which helps disabled children and their families.

Mr Lynch, who has worked in the shop since 2006, added: “The day he found out he had leukaemia, he came in to see me because this was his business and I only rented a chair.

“He said, ‘I’ll sort the lease out for you before I die, John’, and that’s what he did. It’s now my business.

“That’s typical Gordon - not thinking about himself, but thinking about other people.”

Following his diagnosis, Mr Johnson married his partner Anne, who Mr Lynch said had been a rock to Gordon.

Many flocked to Tankerton High Street to pay their respects to Mr Johnson, with his funeral procession parked outside Mr Snips.

Mr Snips is raising money for SNAAP in memory of Mr Johnson, who died on July 28, aged 72.

Donations are being collected in the shop.

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