Top celebrity cutter Keith Harris was brought over by Philip Dickinson, owner of Philips Hair Salons, to give his staff the cutting edge at a motivational day at the Cedar Court Hotel on Monday.

Mr Harris shared his secrets of success, techniques and tips of how to style the latest glamorous looks hot from the red carpets of Hollywood.

He said: “I’ve been trying to explain to the hairdressers what is happening in Italy and America. Fashion is changing all the time and hair has to follow and it’s my responsibility to follow that.

“I’ve been trying to inspire them by showing classical hair techniques that don’t get used in salons anymore. At the moment it’s all about sexy, playful, beautiful hair that moves and has bounce.”

Also during the day motivational speaker Ray Barker, who owns a chain of salons in the North East, gave staff his advice on customer service.

Mr Dickinson said he has spent the past 18 months trying to achieve a five-star status.

He said: “With that in mind and the economy the way it is I felt it was an ideal opportunity to have a motivational day.

“We have not been a casualty of the recession but today was an ideal time to get everyone together with some fantastic motivational speakers and probably the best hairdresser in the world, Keith Harris.”

CUT ABOVE: Motivational speaker Ray Barker with Philips Hair Salon owner Philip Dickinson and celebrity hairdresser Keith Harris. w8251b923