Not many posh West End hairdressers sit you down on arrival to show you the best styles for you to replicate at home. Well, it’s a bit like killing the golden goose isn’t it?

That’s not a concern at Webster Whiteman, just a stone’s throw from Oxford Circus but as friendly and unstuffy as a suburban salon. Don’t get me wrong – it’s still cool, with clean lines and light walls, but there’s no thumping tunes or mindless natter, it’s all very relaxing.

As soon as I’d arrived style director Alan had me in a chair, twizzling up a new kind of pony tail and clipping in bangs to show me how to make my hair look salon-ready from home.  “Well,” he said, “There’s no point you looking stunning leaving here, only to be unable to replicate it from home.” I suggested this nicest of hairdressers come home with me to do my hair forever, but he seemed to think I was joking.

Then it was on to the styling advice, and Alan had loads of it. He looked at the shape of my face and the direction of hair growth from my crown, told me a fringe would never suit me – which is lucky, since I’ve never been brave to try – and then suggested a layered, long bob. After a lovely, lengthy hair wash (where the hairdresser actually asked if I wanted a head massage: do pigs fly? Of course I did – and it was fab!), it was back to the chair. From my comfy position I noticed other clients popping in and out for advice, products, or just a chat – this really is a friendly, unpretentious place. And then, before I’d noticed my scraggy ends dropping onto the floor, Alan was ready for my reveal – and it was impressive. I loved my new look, and, thanks to the salon’s "at home" styling tips, I still love it five washes later.

There was just time for a quick mini mani, where specialist Katrina Hamilton worked wonders with my stub-like, hard-working, pre-election nails, before I left the salon feeling a zillion times better than I had on arrival. If you can’t afford to go to a high-end hairdresser every time you need a snip, I’d definitely recommend a treat of a trip to Webster Whiteman to get yourself a great style that will last, with minimal upkeep. And if you are a regular visitor to top salons, then I reckon it’s time to switch.