Barry and Carol Cruze, a couple whose dedication helped revitalise Moorland Road in Bath, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary on Thursday, 6 August. Married in 1966, both now aged 83, the couple were awarded an MBE in recognition of their pivotal role in transforming the once quiet Moorland Road shopping district into the vibrant hub it is today.
Originally from Frome, Barry moved to Bath as a young man. Their paths crossed when Carol visited his hair salon for an appointment. After the visit, Barry invited her for a drink, which marked the beginning of their journey together.
“She said yes, and here we are 60 years later,” Barry reflected.
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The couple wed on 6 August 1966 - a date Barry remembers fondly as “the year England won the World Cup!” Together, they raised two sons, Jeremy and Nick, and now enjoy the company of four grandchildren: Toby, Jamie, Rebecca, and Sophie.
In 1972, the Cruzes established their hair salon on Moorland Road. At that time, the street was far from the bustling shopping area it is now. The couple were determined to put it on the map.
“When we opened our shop, it was a backwater, but we were determined to get it on the map,” they told Somerset Live.
Their efforts included planting thousands of seeds and bulbs to brighten the area, which successfully transformed the road into a busy local centre. Their work earned them an award from Bath in Bloom.
They also pioneered the installation of Christmas lights, starting a traders’ association that saw the first decorations appear in 1991. This tradition has since become an annual highlight for local residents and visitors alike.
Beyond their business and beautification projects, Barry and Carol supported charities such as CLIC Sargent, now known as Young Lives Vs Cancer.
Barry was honoured with an MBE for his community contributions, though he humbly noted, “Carol should have gotten one as well!”
After more than four decades, the couple retired in 2016, handing over the salon to their son. Although the hairdresser no longer operates, the Cruzes remain committed to the area they helped to reinvigorate.
Barry continues as honorary president of Bath in Bloom, contributing behind the scenes despite no longer being able to do the physical gardening.
“I still keep a watchful eye over Moorland Road. It’s one of my favourite places,” he said, reflecting their enduring connection to the community they helped flourish.