SINGER Claire Gordon is swapping touring with top names and picking up the clippers to give local men a decent haircut after four months of lockdown.
Claire should have been touring Europe with the Russ Ballard Band – former lead singer of the group Argent – but due to the Covid-19 pandemic has found herself stuck at home instead.
She trained as a barber more than 20 years ago and in-between gigging has found hairdressing a useful addition to her repertoire.
Now with the lockdown easing she’s putting those skills to good use – and earning a bit of much-needed cash in the process – by offering al fresco haircuts under a gazebo in her back garden.
“I thought to myself, people are feeling vulnerable, they might not feel comfortable going to a traditional barbershop, so I decided to turn my gazebo into a salon in the fresh air,” said Claire, who has toured with the likes of Tony Christie, PJ Proby and runs her own band, the Country Chix.
The response, she says, has been overwhelming.
“I only put something out and within 24 hours I was chock-a-block – booked out until next Friday – the response her been amazing,” said Claire, who’s guitar-playing husband Roland was also due to play with the Russ Ballard Band.
“The European tour was cancelled two days before lockdown and all our work has just gone,” said Claire.
“Like everyone else in the arts we’re just waiting for things to open up again, but in the meantime I’m quite keen to earn some money!”
Clients anxious to have their locks lopped are heading from far and wide to her Harvington home to get a decent cut after months of waiting.
Claire says she’ll continue to do the cuts – at £12 with discounts for fathers and sons – until there’s no demand. To book, call 07812 473435.
