Looking Back: Tree-mendous effort to recreate Christmas preparations at salon

In 1981 hairdresser Lorraine Mills was carrying a Christmas tree to the salon where she worked at Midgate House when she was spotted by Chris.

Lorraine worked at Andre Bernard for four years, together with Sue and Debbie Pagett Fish.

She said: “Sue and I carried the Christmas tree around 500 yards from the market to the salon.”

Lorraine, who now runs her own hairdressing business from home in Eye, lost touch with Sue, so Debbie, who is now a salon assistant, stepped in for the reunion photo.

She added: “I’m friends with Debbie on Facebook but hadn’t seen her for years so it was lovely to meet up and felt just like old times. Andre Bernard salon has now been taken over by a recruitment firm.”

Chris added: “It was one of my most surreal reunions, trying to recreate the scene on a hot July morning in 2021, to the great amusement of Lorraine, Debbie and members of the public.

“Unfortunately a real tree was not available and the mother and toddler still remain a mystery.”

“If readers would like copies of my local photography books for unique presents then they are available at big discounts from the Queensgate Unity crafts and gift shop and in Waterstones.

“Also look out for my major Reunions exhibition at the museum and art gallery from January 13 to March 23 next year.”