A HALTWHISTLE hairdresser has launched her debut salon in the heart of Hexham.

Keo Hair Salon has opened its doors on St Mary’s Chare in the town.

It is the first business venture for owner, Laura Whitehead.

Laura (30) returned to her long-time love of hairdressing after her twins, Nicole and Kerys, started school.

She said: “Hairdressing is something I’ve always wanted to do.

“I trained in hairdressing at Carlisle College after leaving school.

“When the twins started school in 2011, Northumberland College opened its base in Hexham and it was perfect timing.”

Laura spent four years training at the Hexham campus, two of which she spent as a stylist for the college.

Leaving college with qualifications in hairdressing and business management, Laura considered opening her own business.

And when the Back Street property became available, she jumped at the chance.

Laura and husband Richard, a self-employed joiner, spent a week fitting the place out with help from a plumber and business Top Signs.

Level three hairdressing students Laura Wilkinson, from Wark, and Ilona Graham, from Haltwhistle, have joined Keo on placement.

And the salon has already earned a warm welcome from the Hexham community.

Laura said: “The locals have been absolutely brilliant and we’ve had lots of support from the shops and businesses nearby.

“I wanted to create somewhere that my clients can come to and relax.

“Getting your hair done is a bit of a treat and I want people to enjoy themselves because I love what I do.”