GIVING birth to her first child won't deter Ramsbottom businesswoman Maria Monetti from a quick return to the job she adores!

For the 27-year-old plans to resume her role at the helm of her Elite Hair Design salon in Bolton Road West just four weeks after the happy event, scheduled for later this month. And during her absence, colleagues will continue to operate the thriving business until new mum Maria returns.

She and husband Wayne are anxiously awaiting the birth. "The baby is due on September 18. Ideally, I plan to be at home for up to four weeks before I return to work," disclosed Maria. "That's the time I've set myself as I really enjoy my job - I'm very passionate about it."

Maria, who has been in the hairdressing trade for almost a decade, opened Elite nearly two and a half years ago. The salon employs a five-strong staff and, apart from its hairdressing services, also offers beauty and holistic therapies and healing treatments.

"We also have a service where sometimes we will go out to people who are unable to come here," she said. "We also have clients as far away as London, those who used to live in Ramsbottom, who return to our salon for a hair cut."

Staff training and development is dear to Maria's heart and Elite has provided work experience and apprenticeships to a number of girls. "We've been taking on more staff and now have five, including a beauty therapist," she continued. "We do lots of in-house training and Donna Stephenson and Rachel Fielding have just attended an advanced course in Leeds."

Nearer to home, the salon has been a strong supporter of the Bury Cancer Centre (BCC) and other cancer-related charities. In June, Elite raised nearly £1,000 for BCC at a special event held at Ramsbottom Cricket Club.

As she awaits the arrival of her first baby, Maria has no qualms about taking a break of only a few weeks. "I'm very involved in the business and want to set an example."