1. Raymond Bessone's name is sometimes, but incorrectly, given as Pierre Raymond Bessone.
16 Facts About Raymond Bessone
1. 2.
Raymond Bessone began his career making false beards and moustaches in his father's barber shop.
3.
Raymond Bessone later opened outlets in several major cities, including Birmingham.
4.
Raymond Bessone was the first hairdresser to appear on television, and had his own show at Saturday teatime.
5.
In 1957 Raymond Bessone launched the Shangri-La style, based on "the four principles of colour, line, youth and softness" and inspired by his view of Swiss mountain peaks after being knocked out in a skiing accident.
6.
Except for girls under 20, Raymond Bessone considered that women should avoid having long hair because he considered it ageing.
7.
Raymond Bessone was of the opinion that, except for women with very regular features, a central parting should be avoided.
8.
Raymond Bessone innovated by dyeing hair with bold colours, including pink, orange and purple.
9.
Raymond Bessone was the part-owner of 1963 Grand National winner Ayala.
10.
Raymond Bessone was part-owner of 1976 Grand National winner Rag Trade.
11.
Raymond Bessone's racing colours were ice blue and wine halved, sleeves reversed.
12.
Raymond Bessone divorced in 1962, before his second marriage, to actress Rosalie Ashley.
13.
Raymond Bessone's car crossed a damaged section of the M4 motorway crash barrier and hit an oncoming Porsche.
14.
Raymond Bessone received the OBE in 1982, for services to hairdressing.
15.
Raymond Bessone died in Windsor, Berkshire, on 17 April 1992, aged 80.
16.
Two photographic portraits of Raymond Bessone are held by the National Portrait Gallery, London.