Old Arkwright would have thought you were having a laugh.
By Stacey Barnfield
If youd have told Ronnie Barkers thrifty shopkeeper that one day stores would be offering massages, mud wraps and wax treatments for worn out bargain-hunters hed have thought you were a tin of beans short of a grocery basket.
These are just some of the selection of treatments on offer at Debenhams newlyopened Finders Spa Shop which also sells a range of the health giants famed lotions and creams.
My £45, 75-minute Black Mud Envelopment kicked off with a salt brush to nourish and invigorate from head to toe. Very nice it was too, especially the warmed body lotion massage which followed.
Next on the Barnfield-refurbishment list was the black mud wrap which, according to the Finders brochure is designed to relax the body and mind combining the powerful effects of Dead Sea minerals and sensual aromatherapy oils. Couldnt have put it better myself.
This curious process involved a complete covering in heated, mineral-packed Dead Sea mud before being cocooned in cling film and fluffy towels and being left alone for 15 minutes of quality time.
Paul Simon-esque world music filled the room, and a skincare promotional poster was asking if Im stressed or tired; a big yes to both of those.
After a quick shower to wash off the mud (and several apologies for the mess Id made) another soothing massage rounded off my visit.
The only disappointment was the rooms sound-proofing or lack of which meant I could hear the reception desks telephone ringing out and a looped Tannoy announcement telling me about Debenhams special offers.
This aside, if youre in need of respite from Bullrings dazzling collection of retail giants, this is the place to head for.
