A HAIRDRESSER was left broken hearted after equipment collected over 24 years was taken when her sports car was stolen - and now she is offering a £500 reward for its safe return.

A disconsolate Michelle Griffin at the Scandals hair salon in Barnt Green.

The case containing hairdressing equipment worth around £2,000 was in the boot of a green Rover MG ZR stolen from Royal Worcester Crescent on The Oakalls housing estate, between 10pm on Wednesday, October 20, and 8am on Thursday, October 21.

It had been put in the boot of Michelle Griffin's car because the following day she was going to the Salon International trade show in London.

Michelle, who owns Scandals Hairdressing Studio in Hewell Road, Barnt Green, said: "It means nothing to somebody else but to me it is 24 years of hairdressing.

"I'm more upset about losing that than the car, because at least I can get that back on the insurance."

Michelle's insurance company will only pay up to £100 for personal items in the car.

She added: "Fortunately, at the show, all the girls rallied round and lent me their equipment."

A police spokesman said: "The owner is understandably very upset that her car and hairdressing equipment have been stolen and the loss of both is causing her great inconvenience.

"This equipment in the case had been built up by the owner over many years and will not be easy to replace.

"If anyone finds the case or is offered hairdressing-related items for sale, please give us a call."

Anyone with information is asked to call Bromsgrove police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.