FOOTBALL rivalries were put to one side yesterday when Darlington FC chairman George Reynolds entered enemy territory to open a hairdressing salon.

Mr Reynolds, who feared his passport might not be stamped by the guards on the road into Hartlepool, helped Goffy from Century Radio open Tony Gallagher Hairdressing, at Hartlepool Marina.

Mr Reynolds said: "The guards gave me a funny look on the way into Hartlepool once they realised who I was, but my passport was stamped and we got in fine.

"On the way back though, we had to travel in a different vehicle just in case they would not allow us out. I was worried though about whether or not they would lift the drawbridge."

The millionaire did not get his hair cut but was full of admiration for the small business which has created seven jobs.

He said: "Little shops like that are the backbone of the country and you need people like that to stand on their own. If you cannot help them it is a bad job.

"You have to admire people who start out on their own, especially in the present climate.

"They have the guts to have a go at it and that gives me a lift.

"I am full of admiration for anyone who does that. It is fantastic."

Goffy persistently nags Mr Reynolds to have a hair cut or re-style, but it has been to no avail.

He said: "We have a lot of fun on the show winding him up about his hairstyle and telling him he needs a haircut, but I am really pleased he took time out to help.