THE owner of a hairdressing salon has received a boost thanks to a council grant scheme.

Karen Watson, of Hewlins Hair, in Waterloo Court, opened her salon last year and has now received a £750 Business Incentive Grant from Test Valley Borough Council after being in business for six months.

St Mary’s ward member, Councillor John Cockaday, presented the cheque to Karen at the salon and said: “Karen and her team are incredibly talented professionals and they give their clients a personal service by taking the time to discuss different styles and cuts.

"They have already attracted a lot of repeat business and I have no doubts that the team will continue to do well.”

Karen added: “I’m really pleased that I made the decision to take over the salon. It’s been a tough but completely rewarding year and I am enjoying settling into the business and getting to know our customers. I’d like to thank Test Valley Borough Council for the grant, which has helped us to promote ourselves a lot more.”

The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley.

Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.