A HAIRDRESSER has been bringing her cruise ship glamour to a Ramsbottom retirement community

Katie Stephenson, who has worked around the world on glamorous cruises, has been an hairdresser to the Homeowners at The Cottons in Ramsbottom.

Katie has become a regular visitor to the new Adlington Retirement Living development on Factory Street.

Since the end of the UK lockdown, the former cruise ship hairdresser has been providing retired residents with all their hairdressing needs from a relaxing shampoo and blow-dry to cuts and colours, always following guidance and implementing safety measures to protect Homeowners.

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living, said: “Our on-site hairdressing salon provides a safe and convenient space where our Homeowners can enjoy a bit of pampering and preening, without having to venture out.”

“What better way to boost self-esteem than a trip to the salon. We often see people leave with a real spring in their step after they’ve had their hair done. I definitely think the benefits go beyond the aesthetic.”

Katie started her career as an apprentice in a local salon and worked there for five years, completing her qualifications before heading to London and accepting a job working with Princess Cruises.

She joined her first ship in New York and toured Canada before changing ships in Miami and cruising across the Caribbean, working in the spa with talented stylists from around the world.

Katie said: “I feel really lucky to be a regular visitor to The Cottons now. I have met some lovely new clients over the last six months and really enjoy seeing them. The team at The Cottons are wonderful and I think their support has made a real difference to the Homeowners, especially during the lockdowns.”

Alexandra added: “Our on-site teams have shown their team spirit, working together and going the extra mile to look after our Homeowners.

"Although our restaurants had to temporarily close during the lockdowns, our catering teams offered the same high standard of freshly-prepared, delicious lunchtime meals and delivered them directly to our Homeowners’ front doors, always maintaining social distancing and sanitising trays between deliveries.

"Our team members went shopping and collected prescriptions for our Homeowners and we created ‘pop-up shops’ at each development to provide a safe and easy way to pick up everyday essentials.”