THE owner of a new hair salon which has opened in the town has said that its “great vibe” persuaded her to open up there.

Leigharne Phillips, who lives in Hickman Road and runs The Hair Business, launched the new salon with the help of a famous Wales-based singer songwriter.

Amy Wadge – who co-wrote Ed Sheeran’s track Thinking Out Loud – helped launch The Hair Business in the Royal Buildings on Victoria Road with her friend and salon director Ms Phillips.

The Penarth Times spoke to them as part of our Your High Street: Use It or Lose It campaign which aims to promote greater use of local shops and explore any challenges facing Penarth’s high street businesses.

Ms Phillips, who already runs a salon in Cowbridge, created the hairstyle that Ms Wadge wanted for the Grammy Awards.

She says she chose to open in Penarth because it has a “great vibe” and has everything that someone would want in a town.

The official launch of the salon was held in the new town centre site earlier this month.

Ms Wadge said: “I have known Leigharne for more than 10 years and it was amazing that she was able to create the hair style I wanted for the Grammy Awards with Ed Sheeran.

“Leigharne is my go-to person for styling every time, I totally trust her and what’s great is she isn’t afraid to try new things

“It was a real pleasure to attend the launch for her new salon in Penarth.

“I adore this seaside town, there is certainly a new energy about it.”

Ms Phillips said: “The team and I love being in Penarth.

“It has a great vibe. I always thought if I did open a second salon it would be here. It has taken a long time but it feels right.

“I’ve lived here for 25 years and I have seen it change.

“I feel it is a great place to be whatever your age or desires. It has it all.”

Our Your High Street: Use It or Lose It has already featured businesses, shoppers and politicians on the importance of our town’s high streets.

We are always keen to hear from others with ideas on how to promote and improve them.

Contact our reporter Anthony Lewis on 07760215094 or email alewis@penarthtimes.co.uk.