A Sidcup salon had a free facelift from the Queen of Shops, who offered expert advice ahead of the new series of her TV show.

Shobiz Hair and Beauty in Nisbett Walk officially re-launched as Shobie & Co last Wednesday (July 22) while being filmed for Mary Portas: Secret Shopper.

Salon owner Shobie Lee, 56, said she was overjoyed with her updated business, modernised by Mary Portas, who also ironed out a few staff niggles.

Mrs Lee, who has 34 years’ experience, said: "I thought it was a great opportunity for us to rebrand.

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"It’s been a wonderful journey.

"The business wasn’t failing but it wasn’t going in a direction it should be going in."

Mrs Lee, who co-owns the salon with 54-year-old husband Colin said Mary encouraged her to take a much-needed step back.

She added: "This is my third salon - I do know what I am doing.

"It was about me letting go.

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Hairdresser Amy Bailey, with a client

"That’s why it’s rebranded Shobie & Co, because it’s us doing it rather than me doing it."

The company has a family feel, with long-standing members of staff including Robert, who worked at her Lewisham salon over 20 years ago.

However, problems arose after Mrs Lee's daughter started working as a trainee - creating friction within the team.

Mrs Lee added: "I was aware of some of the issues so Mary turned up at the right time.

"Mary was lovely - I think she’s so down to earth, she’s very kind.

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Mrs Lee with Mary Portas

"I am quite blunt. I am happy with the truth.

"To have somebody come in and design your salon - wow, that’s just so nice."

Despite her agreement to be less controlling, Mrs Lee was unhappy with some aspects of the new design.

She said: "We are going to change a few bits and they realise that.

"The two big sinks are replaced by two tiny, what I call urinal style sinks, but we are addressing it.

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"I think some of the clients thought we were going under, because Mary’s job is to save you.

"But we were on a decline."

Shoebie & Co’s makeover and re-launch will be shown on Channel 4 at the beginning of next year.