ONE of the leading names in fashion is scouring Knutsford with a view to opening a new hair salon.

Toni and Guy confirmed it was interested in Knutsford last week even though there are already 12 salons in Princess Street and King Street.

"We are looking for the right property at the right rent," said a spokesman.

The international hair salon had been in talks with Royal George developer Philip Hughes.

"We did have a site on the new development, but unfortunately that fell through," she said.

"But we are definitely looking around in that area."

On Friday the news was greeted with mixed feelings by David Marsh from Rumours hair salon in King Street.

"I just think there are enough already although our business is doing very well," he said.

"But it will mean some healthy competition."

If Toni and Guy moves in, it will be the latest big name to choose Knutsford as the place to do business.

Recently wax jacket specialists Barbour announced plans to open in Wares' former shop in Princess Street.

And Starbucks, Loch Fyne and celebrity chef Paul Heathcote will be in business once £10million work on the Royal George is complete.

Toni and Guy - official hair care sponsors at London Fashion Week - has 352 salons in 32 countries and runs 21 international academies.