THE Christie Institute is giving patients a headstart.

Pioneering ways of attractively masking hair loss caused by treatments have proved so successful that skills are to be passed on to hospital volunteers nationwide - on request.

They will learn the techniques at a study day at the hospital on May 26.

Headstart began at the Christie five years ago when volunteers began showing balding women patients how to tie scarves to look like chic fashion accessories.

Over the years the project has expanded to include hats, snoods, jewellery and other attractive accessories.

Voluntary services manager, Liz Parkinson, said: "In response to many enquiries from hospitals, community cancer centres and cancer support groups we are running the study day to help them set up their own schemes."

The day costs £20 per place. More information from Liz on 0161 446 3056.

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