A HAIR salon is celebrating after being given a five-star hygiene rating during the pandemic.

Reed Hair, on Maldon High Street, was awarded the top score by the Salon Standards Agency.

Owners Vicki Meredith and Jane Williams said they were thrilled to be rated 'outstanding'.

Vicki said: “As an award-winning salon our standards have always been extremely high, but in light of the pandemic we have improved and maintained safety to the highest of levels.

"We are very fortunate to be able to still provide a two-metre distance between our clients.

"We feel extremely grateful that the Salon Standards Agency have recognised our efforts”.

The salon underwent rigorous hygiene checks and intense assessments.

Vicki said just 15 per cent of salons receive an outstanding five stars.