OBE for top hairdresser with Wick links

AN award-winning Edinburgh hairdresser whose father was born and bred in Wick has been named in the Queen’s New Year 2012 Honours List.

In recognition for services to the industry, hairdressing guru Charlie Miller has received an OBE.

His father, Phineas Miller, was brought up in Wick before settling in Edinburgh after the Second World War.

Founder of his namesake company, Mr Miller said he is deeply grateful to the Queen for the award.

“I share this award with my talented and supportive family and the many people with whom I have worked along the journey,” he said. “It’s a beautiful happening in my life.”

The top stylist – who in 2009 celebrated 50 years in hairdressing – is the first Scottish hairdresser to be honoured with an OBE.

Amongst the top in the hairdressing industry, Mr Miller has won or been nominated for several of the world’s most coveted hairdressing awards.

Over the years he has styled the hair of many VIPs and celebrities including Sean Connery, Donna Karan and the late Lesley Neilson. Even the Dalai Lama shaves his head monthly using a clipper given to him by Mr Miller.

After hanging up his scissors in 1998, Mr Miller focused on the company’s marketing, PR and business development and since 2007 has been committed to styling wigs for Teenage Cancer Trust teenagers and young people undergoing cancer treatment.