Wednesday 16 April

Last diary entry, well for this series anyway..! Really, really, really sad! This has been the best experience of my life – hard work but great fun. I have been fortunate to meet some fabulous people but foremost work with some special colleagues. There really is a ‘team’ feel within The Salon. I shall so miss everyone. Each and everyone of us has a unique personality – certainly all have enriched my life.

Paul has been a great influence, I’ll say this again – it would be an honour to work with him in the future (fingers crossed) Adee is the character – a massively talented guy who’s already made his mark! Perhaps controversial at times, creatively a genius – top bloke too! John – the Daddy – hilarious, camp, glitzie – his artillery is fascinating. His hairdressing versatility is immense – cracking guy.

Sonja – have so much respect for her. A bubbly lass from Derby. I admire her determination. She has produced some stunning results. Carina is a beautiful young lady who has blossomed into a potentially great hairdresser. She has the world at her feet. Vass – a lovely geezer. He too is turning into a talented hairdresser. His future is bright! Not a bad footballer either. He will be a friend of mine for a very long time.

Suzanne has proved an inspiration to females, young and old, says what she feels, honest, hard working. A beautiful woman to boot. I have so much respect for her. Sabrina – my big sister – she’s looked after me since I started. She has proved to be the country’s leading nail technician. I have to thank her so much for all she has done for me. She’ll go miles!

I haven’t had the pleasure of working too much with Desmond – terrific guy, just laughs and laughs – gifted beyond belief. Amanda has been great too – she mothered me during those After Hours shows – I love her to bits. The twins, well what can you say. Giggly and beautiful – you’ll never forget them!

Which leaves me with one more colleague – my gorgeous, beautiful, talented lady that is Mel. On a professional note vastly gifted, she has given the industry an injection of colour. Her creations are frankly superb. Accolades and awards are certain to follow. Personally, think you all know how I feel. I am so in love with her. She just amazes me every time I see her. My heart still dives into my stomach whenever she enters the room, glances at me or brushes past. I want to be with her all the time. So excited for our future together. Yes, I would marry her tomorrow! Mr Gear – look forward to meeting you soon!

The production team have been great. A clever, professional outfit. They are the real stars. Thank you so much for giving me this wonderful opportunity.

Finally a thank you to you all for your continued support, your kind words and messages. The show would be nothing without you. Take care all. God bless and good luck. Jonathan xxxx


Sunday 13 April

One of the biggest highlights of the show for me today – being voted Employee of the Week! Paul gave a really encouraging introduction to his justifications. Feel well chuffed. Not sure about the picture though!

Mixed emotions today however. Final Sunday of the show – felt sad. It really is countdown. Hit home when Paul showed us a two-minute tape of AJ’s and Vassos’s greatest moments (whilst at The Salon). They were both hilarious. AJ’s moments were accompanied by the tune ‘Freak Like Me’, Vassos’s by his idol Justin Timberlake!

Going out for a quick bite to eat with Sabrina after work. Mel is meeting a friend from Wales – girly chat no doubt. I’ll miss her. xxx


Thursday 10 April

Last day of the week – had a brilliant day. The ‘legend’ Frankie Dettori came in. Such a nice guy. Suzanne was made up.

Was feeling a bit hungover (again). Plan to seriously detox tomorrow – as we’re gong out again tonight to continue Suzanne’s birthday celebrations… Mel will be out tonight so looking forward to spending some time with her. Bless her, she had her NVQ assessment today. Angie was overseeing her colouring techniques. To no-one’s surprise she passed with flying colours. Proud for her – she more than deserves the accolade.

The day was tinged with some sadness, just a week to go before the show finishes. I have really got into it. Feel comfortable. Met some fabulous people and made some great friends. A great experience – to meet the girl of my dreams has made it all so fantastic and unforgettable. Plan to carry on enjoying every minute next week! xxx


Wednesday 9 April

Paul took us all out for a meal last night – fantastic time! The meal was sumptuous and plenty of drink flowed. Paul and I shared a litre of cherry vodka shots…good idea at the time…kinda thinking twice today!

Enjoyed today – more intriguing Clients in. Did the ‘After Hours’ show tonight – my first as manager. I’ve had a good few years of managerial experience therefore wasn’t too worried with the responsibility.

The night really depends on the Clients we have in (the singles). Previously we have had a couple of incidents where people have reacted negatively after drinking too much booze and the behaviour was unacceptable within a professional salon. Tonight we reduced the amount of alcohol levels – my directive to manage a night where our standards of service were not to be compromised.

The theme being twins the evening was different – we had more female than male twins in – as such not much flirting ! However our very own twins – Hayley and Sarah – swapped numbers with a male Client. Those two are hilarious – they crack me up!

John, Sabrina and I went out after to celebrate Suzanne’s birthday. Had a brilliant night. Suzanne’s cousins were over from Ireland. Two very attractive lasses they were too! Sabrina had a dance or two with a guy – she was a happy lady. Missed my Mel. She went home early during the After Hours show as she had been in since 10. Had a few drinks – purely to celebrate Suzanne’s birthday… xxx


Tuesday 8 April

Cracking day today! Poor Sonja was still off – meant Desmond came in today. He is such a genuinely nice bloke.

Had a chat with Paul regarding managing the “After Hours” show. Excited with the responsibility. I hope they all behave…Clients and Staff!

The day went quickly – always a sign of how busy you are. Mel was teased all day about her see-through skirt. What’s she like?!

Mel’s mum has invited me down to Swansea when the show ends. Hope that means she approves. My mum and dad think Mel’s great – so happy for us. Mel and I have been for dinner two nights in a row! Always a happy chappie when I get to spend time with her. We’re really comfortable with each other’s company. Doesn’t get any better than this.

Paul is taking us all for dinner tonight. Will let you know the gossip… Take care xxx


Monday 7 April

Really enjoyed today – feeling much better. Half The Salon seems to be ill though: Sab towards the end of the day, Suzanne came back from Ireland with ‘Irish flu’, Vass had stomach ache, oh and Mel’s still not 100% (even though she manages to look stunning!) Sonja was off too. Hope she’s back tomorrow – missed her today.

More great Clients in today. Thank you to the lovely lady – hi Zoe. She gave Mel and I a chocolate heart reading “Mel 4 Jonathan”. Mel made a funny joke (not) today about us splitting in the two weeks after the show concludes. I do so hope she was joking. Such a funny girl!

Went for dinner with her tonight. I love spending time with her, getting to know her is brilliant. Oh, told you how funny she was, well, she threw a wet sponge at me today then showered me with washing up foam…hilarious...I’ll get her back.

Got called into Paul’s office late today. Dread sitting in the “Death Chair”. Am well chuffed with what he said – tell you tomorrow! xxx


Sunday 6 April

Funny old day today. Adee and Suzanne were both away on holiday whilst poor AJ was sick.

Went out with some old friends last night. Bad move in the morning! Felt awful all day - self inflicted though.

John fully deserved his Employee of the Week accolade. He's so full of energy and quirks - every Client loves him. Since last week he is the most requested of the Stylists.

I didn't give Little Mel her cold by the way! xxx


Thursday 3 April

End of the week. Going to catch up with my best mate 'Dog' and the parents.

Enjoyed today, once again we had lovely clients in - bit miffed with a few comments from a certain 'giant' though! I am a strong believer that if you have nothing positive or good to say then don't say it! Everyone is entitled to their opinion, a fact of life is such that not everyone likes you. However, to continually bleat their self-riteousness to a young impressionable lady leaves a lot to be desired.

I welcomed this person who said what a lovely couple Mel and I made and she was all smiles on leaving. I made a comment that it would be a different story if she said anythng to my face and 'quel suprise' silence! My reaction to this summarised my true feelings, starting with a general consensus that the practise was hideously outdated. Fascinating, I accept, but a minority in this day and age. I wasn't slanderous to her personally, yet she attacked me. What the hell does she know about me? Comparing Mel to her best friend, and also writing to someone on Death Row! Come on love, think before you open your mouth.

Enough ranting, hope you all had a great weekend.xx


Client's response

I was very sad to read Jonathan's spiteful comments about me. He accused me of 'attacking him' and yet I said nothing negative about him. I merely warned dear Mel to not rush into anything too young. What's so insulting about that??

As for my friend, Beth, who died tragically at a young age, the pretty, dear little Mel, reminded me of Beth and I was shocked that Jonathan took my remark as an insult!

I am six feet tall and do not consider myself 'a giant!' I did modelling when I was younger and was certainly not the tallest woman on the catwalk! I am proud to be tall, altho' I hated it when I was younger. I shared that fact with Jonathan before leaving that day, so his diary entry was cruel. He seems to be a very volatile person who needs to stop listening to gossip. I did not say that I was a white witch - it was a joke that John had made earlier in the visit - and I certainly never predict anything!! I did not disrespect him.



Wednesday 2 April

Knackered! Did the late show tonight – great night. Best I’ve done. Missed Amanda but got to work with Desmond for the first time.

Gina G was in – a lovely woman. So down to earth and genuine - a pleasure to meet her.

During the day we were graced with the presence of a living legend – Julie Goodyear! A natural ‘lady’ – she was brilliant!

AJ’s birthday celebration – a cake, champagne (can get used to this) coupled with a visit from his sister. Great to see him smiling. Looking forward to the weekend – take care. xxx


Tuesday 1 April

Feel much better today. My eyes have improved although still a bit blurry.

Really enjoyed today – Clients were fantastic. I could sit and chat to them all day!

Looking forward to the do tonight – everyone’s going – should be fun I’ll let you all know the gossip!

Short one today then – no comments please! The girls will be mad if I’m late! xxx


Monday 31 March

Bit late in today – had to go and see a doctor about my eyes – also have the flu :-( I am a walking chemist! My impression of a continuously barking seal made my day a tad miserable!

Knew the day wouldn’t be great when faced with Ricardo’s departure. He will be missed. Adee was also off ill leaving just 3 stylists – Paul, Sonja and John – to cope with almost twice their anticipated Clients. Everyone pulled together so well we got through. Still, got to see Melanie so all’s not that bad! xxx


Sunday 30 March

Brilliant day today. Was so happy for Sonja when her parents came in. Was just showing them round when suddenly looked up and there was Mum and Dad! Ah bless! Was just so brilliant! I was more nervous them. They had a fantastic time – thank you again.

Am so much happier man today. Had a crap weekend – didn’t get to see Mel all weekend. I know I was moody. Tonight all changed and despite being ridden with flu and a lovely eye problem I’m smiling! Mel and I met up with ‘Auntie’ Suzanne and ‘big sis’ Sabrina for a meal. Always count on Suzanne to goad you into a few drinks! Not sure about hot toddies though… xxx


Thursday 27 March

Tired today, didn't leave work until 1am with the single's night last night.

Had our 2000th client in today - Dave. He was made up with champagne, cake, party poppers, banners and a page 3 girl. It was a day he won't forget in a hurry!

Had the results of our appraisals this morning, very interesting. Thought mine was positive. I was particularly pleased that Paul is happy and the 'panel' gave some good feedback too. Was pleased at how positive Sonja's reaction to her feedback was - she has real determination.

The day concluded with the news that Ricardo had been voted to stay - no great surprise. Would have missed him had the result gone the other way. More surprised with Paul's decision to resign. I have the utmost respect for him, he has been put in some uncompromising situations and dealt with them professionally. I'm looking forward to working exclusively for him. Have a good weekend!


Wednesday 26 March

Long day today. Started at 12 and finished at 12 – absolutely knackered. Late night ‘singles’ was best yet – some really genuinely nice people in. Hardly got to see my gorgeous Mel today (or speak to Mum and Dad). Appraisals in the morning – oh God. Football with Vass Thursday night and hopefully a weekend relaxing to follow.

Thank you for your letter Toni. I will write back over the weekend. Keep smiling, you’re not on your own.

Still the happiest man in the world though!! xxx


Tuesday 25 March

Paul informed us all today that the ‘Mystery Shoppers’ had all been in! Whilst I am used to this kind of thing it’s still an experience to leave you on tenterhooks! What’s more I get 10 of them (one for each team member)!

Once again we had some fantastic Clients in today. I have said this before but the best part of my job is meeting all the various Clients that come in to The Salon. I’m not one for stargazing but I have to mention the utterly beautiful Normandie Keith. Like many of us, I’ve seen her picture grace a thousand magazine articles and you’re never quite sure how they will be in real life. I have great pleasure in saying what a wonderful lady she is – down to earth, natural and genuine. Right up there in Mel’s league. She is stunning, incredibly beautiful yet like you and I – human.

How chuffed was I when she knew about Mel and I – the fact of where we went on our first date...and how she thought I had made a real gesture! A truly wonderful lady, she has everything you could wish for in life (including a cute woofer). Thank you for today.

Went for dinner tonight with ‘big sis’ Sabrina, John, Suzanne, Sonja, a few friends and the increasingly amazing young lady that is Mel! Had a great night – I can sit here all night and listen to the banter!

I am sorry if I am the envy of the nation. Believe me I still cannot comprehend how lucky I am going out with Mel. Everyone has a mental checklist of their ideal partner. Being rather fussy I thought mine was quite demanding! Mel has just ripped mine to pieces! My word what a girl! Even if she broke my heart and dumped me tomorrow I can still be proud I had the privilege of holding her hand. Mum, go hat shopping! xxxxxx


Monday 24 March

Day began with everyone really busy. Quietened down this afternoon. Endured more teasing today – calmed down a bit from yesterday!

Had some really nice Clients in today. It’s great seeing people enjoying themselves, feeling relaxed and chilled. Most Clients who visit are understandably quite nervous. I see a key element of my role is to settle the Client with a pleasant welcome, forgetting about the cameras and seeing we are all human beings conducting our jobs in a professional manner. The fact the whole team gets in so well is a major bonus. Many Clients comment on how natural the environment is – plenty of laughter and banter, whilst remaining efficient and professional.

Excellent start to the day. I travel with Sabrina and Mel to work – usually it’s Mel or I who looses (well, me anyway), our train ticket, trips over or does something stupid. Today my “big sister” Sabrina forgot her ticket! Perhaps you had to be there to see the funny side but I was delighted! Bless her – confident though that the tables will turn shortly and I will embarrass her in some way by doing something stupid!

Still got a cheesy grin on my face – we all know who’s responsible for that! xxx


Sunday 23 March

Popped back home this weekend – great to see all the family. The Salon was fabulous today. On a real buzz – sure everyone knows why! The usual suspects – John, Adee and Paul took great delight in teasing Mel and I all day! I don’t think I need to say much – the constant smile says it all! She is totally gorgeous!

Great to see Ricardo back today. He has explained and apologised. At the end of the day he has been a very dear colleague of mine and a vital cog in the team.

Oh, and just in case you were interested it wasn’t a Burger bar! xxx


Thursday 20 March

Different day today. We had Clients in all morning - all such genuine and nice people. The afternoon centered around a photo shoot. A mecca in the industry, the ‘Godfather’ if you like – Anthony Mascolo – took pictures of the stunning Carina for the front cover of Hair magazine. Carina looked absolutely fabulous! She didn’t look at all nervous – a born natural. I have had 2 weeks of working alongside legends of the industry: Adee and Paul coupled today with meeting Anthony. A true gent also I have to say!

Due to be playing football with Vassos later tonight. He assures me as a former Chelsea schoolboy he’ll show me how to play… we’ll see!

A big thank you to Kay also for my letter. The first one I’ve had. I was made up – so thoughtful.

Overall the day was a mixture of emotions. Ricardo who has been so helpful and welcoming to me was suspended. I hope so much he returns. I think he will. He is such a massive influence. I will be gutted not to see and work with him again.

On a more positive note John’s lips were hilarious. He had been embarrassing Mel and I all week so kinda sweet revenge!

As for Mel and I, well how could anyone not find her attractive? She is a truly amazing person, so cheerful and full or energy. Even when p***** off she’s still beaming! I don’t know if she is interested. I do know she will make one lucky person very happy indeed! Fingers crossed eh!


Wednesday 19 March

Went back home last night. Round to see Mum and Dad and our dog. Had double servings of mum’s own shepherd’s pie! You just can’t beat her cooking! I’ve been living on my own for 3 and a half years but I still miss them all.

Mum is now familiar with every John phrase – “no love”, “not now – busy”, “glitzy” and of course “jealous”. She knows John has no chance at converting me – how could he when I have the daily pleasure of working alongside 5 beautiful ladies! Believe me, I know how lucky I am! xxx


Tuesday 18 March

Another hilarious day coupled with some fantastic Clients. One highlight of the day had to be when John tripped over one of the lantern cases during our temporary blackout (when all the lights in the main Salon failed for an hour or so). It was so funny. Sweet retribution considering all the jibing and winding up he has done this week (primarily about Mel and I ). The Mel saga begins… xxx


Monday 17 March

Funny, funny day. Adee and Paul had me in stitches, teasing me about my height. I am half an inch below the male UK average height! Could not stop laughing all day.

John joined full time – he brings such a presence to the team. You can never take him seriously – just such a quick wit. Leaves you giggling uncontrollably. Had the honour of a famous ‘Adee’ haircut today! Well pleased with it.

We also had the photo shoot tonight for the opening titles – didn’t feel too well, not helped much when spun round repeatedly! Good laugh nonetheless! xxx


Sunday 16 March

First day back after my trial week at The Salon. It’s been an amazing experience – feel so much more confident and comfortable, safe in the knowledge that I would be staying! AJ started his trial week today. I know exactly how he must have felt – good luck mate – sure he will pass with flying colours.

The best part of the job is that I get to meet EVERY Client that comes into The Salon! Always a real mixture – each Client has a different story to tell, varying backgrounds. xxx