A NEW hairdo was a real tonic for four devoted carers enjoying a break from their duties.

Staff at the Bishop Auckland Saks salon treated Betty Crone, Gillian Carney, Lillian Gowland and Marjory Bowes to new hair -styles and manicures while their husbands and Gillian's father were in safe hands for the day at the Lady Eden Hospital, at Bishop Auckland.

Mrs Crone, who is rarely far from the side of her husband George, said the makeover had raised all their spirits. "It isn't easy for any of us but this has been a real treat," she said.

Amanda Waldock, Saks principal stylist and assistant manager, said: "It was lovely to do this for them. We feel as though we have done something really worthwhile."