QYPE*

After the debacle that was my experience of getting my hair callously lopped off at the Toni & Guy academy, my fairy-godmother in the form of Rick from the Rose and Crown appeared to make sure I would get to the ball - and not in the guise of an ugly sister - as he very kindly offered to fix my hair for free.

I arrived in my pumpkin carriage (better known as the Northern Line) and strolled down a very busy Long Acre which was jam packed with Christmas shoppers and tourists and found refuge from the madness in Rose Street. A quaint, quiet wee street with a slight Dickensian air to it.

The small, independently run salon was a breath of fresh air from the faceless anonymity of the big chain salons I’ve patronised in the past. It was obvious from the outset that Rick knows about hair and he took a good look at mine and had good chat with me before whipping out the scissors.

The result is that I’m now delighted that my hair no longer makes me look like Tina Turner circa 1990 and is very pretty, and I’m ever so pleased. Moreover I feel confident that should I ever have any further hair disasters or even small queries; I know exactly where to go.

I will certainly be recommending the Rose & Crown to whomever shall listen and I will definitely be returning – whether for a new do, colour, manicure or massage (yes, they do all that in one cosy wee place! Not in the same room, there are different rooms, obviously.)

Staunchly recommended for those who find it difficult to trust hairdressers and for any hair catastrophes – the personal touch here is hugely reassuring.