"WHAT are you up to at the weekend?" must be second only to "Where are you going for your holidays?" in terms of most-asked questions while people are getting their hair done.

But new customers at a popular York ladies' salon are often shocked when this slightly-built stylist says she'll be playing rugby - as a prop forward.

Toyah Palmer, senior stylist for Edward Charles Hair Design, in Walmgate, turns out as prop every Sunday for the Acomb-based Acorn Rugby Club.

And Toyah, who stands only 5ft 4in tall, says her small frame isn't a problem when she is out on the pitch.

"I can hold my own and haven't been beaten up too many times.

"I can get quite tough and aggressive if I need to be, but I try to play fair as much as I can."

Toyah, 21, said rugby is in her family's blood and it seemed natural that she would play.

"My dad and my brother both played, and I've been watching it since I was about five, so I just fancied a go.

"My clients are surprised when I tell them I play. They always say 'You aren't big enough' - but they should see me when I'm on the pitch."

Updated: 11:52 Monday, March 11, 2002