Kate ScotterMany wouldn't trust their children to cut their hair but next week dozens of people will put their courage and faith in the next generation and book an appointment with a mini-barber.Kate Scotter

Many wouldn't trust their children to cut their hair but next week dozens of people will put their courage and faith in the next generation and book an appointment with a mini-barber.

Twenty-six pupils from Catton Grove Primary School were in training yesterday to learn how to cut people's hair ahead of the Norfolk and Norwich Festival's Haircuts by Children next week.

The event will see Flint Hair in Bridewell Alley taken over by the youngsters, aged nine and 10, who will style people's hair.

Over the years, the project, which started in Canada four years ago, has seen children come up with a wide range of wacky designs from creating pink Mohicans to shaving the shape of a dog into the side of someone's head.

Eva Verity, associate producer, said: 'It's a big risk - it's a risk for the participants to come in and have their hair cut and it's a challenge for the children.

'But the dialogue that happens between the child and the client and the way they interact is really nice. It's theatrical watching it happen and it's engaging to see.'

The youngsters are learning the tricks of the trade from stylists at City College Norwich's salon. They have three training sessions in total before they are let loose with the scissors next weekend.

James Tilley, 10, said he wanted to create a Mohican-style hairdo with spikes coming out at all angles. Meanwhile, young Victoria Airey, 10, wanted to cut layers into someone's fringe.

Agnes Pattison, school coordinator for creative partnerships, said it was a 'totally unique' experience for the children.

She said: 'The children are very, very excited but also a bit scared. It's an unknown quantity. It's been a mixture of disbelief from some people and others who have said 'go for it, take the risk'. It is an adventure.'

Conor O'Brien, who runs Flint Hair, said: 'The kids are fantastic and are all different types of children - some creative, some open, some quite shy. They are all doing really well and I've found it quite inspiring.'

Haircuts by Children is produced by Mammalian Diving Reflex. It will be held on May 7 and 8 from 11am to 5pm.

The closing date for appointments is Tuesday, May 4. To make your free appointment call 01603 878285.