Unique hairdressing business The Floating Salon has returned to its mooring on the Kennet and Avon Canal in Bradford on Avon after a year in London.

Owner Nicola Dawkins, 32, bought the boat, Blackjack, in 2008 and slowly refurbished it into a business and home for her and her partner Michael Saunders, a marine electrician and plumber.

The couple had been exploring the waterways in London since last year when they were selected to appear in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Thames Flotilla, but returned to a permanent mooring in Bradford in July.

Miss Dawkins, who has been hairdressing for 15 years, said: “The weather made us stay and explore the waterways. Our aim was to travel the system and now we have managed to do that.

“We love the social side of the city but the London canals are not as pretty.

“It is fantastic to be back. It has been manic, but in a good way. Ninety-five per cent of my regular customers have come back so it is lovely to have such a loyal following.

“I have picked up lots of new clients. The timing could not have been better because I got here as soon as the summer started. A lot of walkers stop by and make an appointment and if I am busy they pop back in the afternoon.”

The couple no longer live on the boat since they returned to the town and Miss Dawkins has opened up the lounge to create a larger salon. She is looking to expand into nails, massages and holistic treatments in the future.

For more information and to book an appointment, visit www.thefloatingsalon.com