HRH The Princess Royal paid a visit to Charlie Miller Training Academy on Wednesday, all part of the celebration of Charlie’s 50th year as a hairdresser.
The Princess Royal unveiled a plaque and heard about the sterling work which Mr Miller does with the Hair 4 U project and the Teenage Cancer Trust. Since he began styling real hair wigs for young cancer patients (and in typical Charlie style getting other hairdressers involved) there have been 930 wigs provided free of charge.
The royal visitor was accompanied by The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh the Rt Hon Donald Wilson in his capacity as the Lord Lieutenant. He introduced her to Charlie Miller OBE, his wife Janet Miller and sons Jason and Josh who are all involved in the business. He also presented her to India Miller who, alongside her husband Jason, is considered one of the most influential hair designers in the UK, and Ian Blyth who is a Director and Educator.
Jason & Joshua Miller commented: “From origins that began in a hairdressing salon in a small housing estate in the Prestonfield area of Edinburgh, the business has come a long way and the visit by HRH The Princess Royal is a tremendous honour for our family, Directors, Managers and all members of Charlie Miller. The most significant focus during the past 50 years has always been about answering the needs of every client with genuineness, empathy and warmth and to motivate and encourage staff to aspire to evolve with a caring and inspirational heart. We’ve enjoyed 50 years together and are looking forward to continuing this amazing journey.”
During a reception, The Princess Royal also met longest-serving clients Alan Collins, Bill Paton, Isla Duncan and Marion Mackintosh as well as Managers, Assistant Managers and other members of Charlie Miller, including those who have worked with the family business in excess of 20 years. The company’s 6 ‘Trainees of the Year’ who are representative of the company’s successful apprenticeship training programme were also introduced to The Princess Royal whilst demonstrating some of their cutting and styling skills.
At the end of her visit and in honour of the company’s golden milestone The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque in the first floor Training Academy and was presented with a charitable donation to the Princess Anne’s Charities Trust along with a posy of flowers.
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