THREE hair salons in Burnley have been hit by thieves who are believed to be deliberately targeting expensive GHD straighteners.

Lila’s on Accrington Road and Reflections on Gannow Lane have both been raided and an attempted break-in was reported at a salon in Coal Clough Lane.

Police said they are considering the possibility the raids are linked. Thieves gained access to Reflections by forcing their way in through the rear door with a crow bar on Monday.

They took more than £1,500 of equipment, including seven used pairs of GHDs, worth up to £145 each, as well as three new, boxed pairs that were on the shelves intended for sale, and a Babyliss ‘Perfect Curl’ machine, worth around £120. Salon owner Gail Simpson said: “I’ve been here for 22 years and we’ve only ever had one break-in before, but this time to be targeted for our GHDs, it’s a bit random.

“It’s just awful, we knew as soon as we walked through the door..

“The middle door was open, I just knew, I got that gut feeling.

“There was not one footprint, they were obviously very skilful, they knew what they were doing.

“For some guys to know the difference between a GHD and a curling wand is very difficult.

“They haven’t taken the cheaper stuff, they’ve taken the expensive stuff.

“It’s awful, it’s just horrible. You work damned hard for your living and someone can just take it. Those GHDs were our living.

“We couldn’t work yesterday, we had no GHDs to work with. I’d like to thank my customers for their support, everyone rallied round, they lent me their GHDs so that I could work.”

Lila’s salon was targeted on Friday night, when thieves broke in through the back door.

They took the till, which contained a small amount of money, as well as a pair of GHDs and two UV lamps used for manicures.

Inspector Phil Hutchinson from Burnley police said: “Currently police are investigating a number of break-ins to shop premises that have occured overnight.

“If anyone saw anyone acting supiciously or has information about any of these offences, contact police on 101 or Crimetoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Specifically if anyone is offered any items they believe may be stolen, especially hairdressing equipment, we would like to know.”