DARLINGTON'S title as the hairdressing capital of Britain has been confirmed with the opening of another salon.

The town already has 97 hairdressing salons - more per head of population than anywhere in the country.

It will have 98 by the end of next week.

But Stephen Lloyd, who is opening his salon in a former lingerie shop in Priestgate, said he is confident he will get a large enough client base.

The former London hairdresser has,worked for TV shows, including the Indiana Jones Chronicles, and for large corporations.

He has coiffed the heads of the rich and famous, including leader of the House of Commons Robin Cook and the wife of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

He has also owned salons in Edinburgh and Stornoway, in Scotland, but decided to sell up and move back to his native Teesside earlier this year.

Mr Lloyd is advertising for four experienced hairdressers with a wide client base.

He said: "We will only offer a very professional service. Once the salon becomes established I am hoping to offer beauty treatments as well, and tanning booths."

The salon, Lloyds Hairdressers, which is opening in the former Penelope's Lingerie shop, is still being refurbished and Mr Lloyd hopes to have it open by the end of next week.

Anyone interested can telephone the salon for more information on (01325) 353638.