A HAIRDRESSER in a village near Darlington has expanded his business following huge salon success.

Twelve Central, in Middleton St George, has recently taken on two trainees to join the cutting room.

Lesley Wennington, from Darlington, and Nick Langburn, from Middleton St George, both 16, have signed up for a three-year training course.

To help meet demand Michelle Phare, from Darlington, has also joined the team as a stylist, having come from a reputable salon in the town centre.

Twelve Central's owner, Alan Proctor, said: "Middleton St George is experiencing rapid growth, with very high demand for its sought-after properties.

"Twelve Central's client list has increased immeasurably, to the point where appointments have become very scarce, hence I recently took on some great stylists who have come in with really fresh ideas."

The salon also offers a wide range of beauty and massage treatments, including manicures, facials, eye treatments and stress therapy, and Just For Men Beauty.