Induction of New Member Mr Nigel Johnston

Nigel was born in Newtownbutler and in 1964 the family moved to Enniskillen. Completing his hairdressing training at Fermanagh College Nigel worked in a number of salons in Belfast before taking the decision in 1981 to open a hairdressing business in Enniskillen with Gordon his brother who had also worked in Belfast and London. The name 'Headhunters' was derived from the shops location on Darling Street which runs parallel with Head Street. The salon which originally opened as both ladies & gents took on an African theme with amazing stuffed animal heads, spears and bamboo, which prompted Nigel to take an interest in taxidermy!

Nigel along with his brothers Gordon & Selwyn have always had an interest in local railway heritage and this was inspired by their cousin who worked on the GNRI in Belturbet as a Signalman. The opportunity came in 2002 to incorporate a railway theme alongside the barbers business and with the help of former railway employees and enthusiasts this has continued to develop right to the present day. It has the distinction of being the only barbers shop and railway museum in the world and Nigel enjoys welcoming visitors from throughout the world.? The barbers shop is now a visitor attraction and Nigel has completed his Welcome Host Ambassador Training and secured a four star grading from Tourism Northern Ireland for the museum. Nigel is involved with hosting many events within the museum including school and youth groups to TV personalities wishing relive the golden age of steam travel!??? He is a member of the Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism Attractions Group, NI Museums Council, Independent Museums Association and Irish Railway Record Society.

His connection with Enniskillen Rotary goes back to 1988 when he joined Enniskillen Rotaract Club and for many years was actively involved with community and fundraising events such as the creation of Inish Cathleen Island Park and Telethon. In those days Sean O'Haire was the Rotary Rotaract Liaison Officer and was extremely supportive of the young people's fundraising activities. Nigel continues to take an active interest in local fundraising and community events through the work of the railway museum.

When not walking his miniature Schnauzer Roxy or working within the garden Nigel enjoys building a large model railway layout at the museum, which will soon be ready for visitors to operate.

Nigel is a member of Enniskillen Presbyterian Church and serves on the congregational committee.