Christmas Day buffet at barbers

So kind-hearted salon owner Lynsey Rush is opening her barber shop in Willenhall on Christmas Day to provide food and good cheer.

She was moved to make the offer after losing her mother this year. Lynsey, 36, owner of Jimmy Trims Cult Barber Shop in Wolverhampton Street, said: "This is definitely something mum would have done."

The idea was sparked after a customer told her he would be having beans on toast alone on Christmas Day.

"Not long afterwards, another customer told me he hadn't spoken to anyone on Christmas Day for 20 years," she said.

"I couldn't bear to think of them on their own, so I decided to open up the shop and hold Christmas here. The customers can't believe it - one or two have been quite tearful about it."

Since hearing of her generous offer, several Willenhall traders have rallied round and provided food and Prosecco for the festive gathering. Around 12 people so far have said they will be attending.

Lynsey, whose mother Julie Rush died aged 54 in June, said: "My mum would have approved. She was always taking people in, sometimes for two or three weeks at a time. This is in her honour.

"It's lovely how it's brought everyone together. The other traders have been brilliant."

For health and safety reasons, she will not be able to cook on the premises but promises a buffet table heaving with pork pies, sausage rolls, mince pies and other Yuletide fare.

And Lynsey's six-year-old son Joseph will be providing the entertainment.

"When I told him what was happening, he was delighted. He wants to come along and do magic tricks for everyone."

Anyone wishing to take part in the gathering, between 12 - 2pm, is asked to contact Lynsey at the shop on 01902 609541 so she knows how many people to expect.