Two young barbers are breathing a new lease of life into a Newport barber shop after recently taking over the business.

Friends Ben Birchall and Josh Briggs, both aged 19, have taken over Ridgeway Barbers, situated across the road from the Ridgeway Bar and Kitchen, after working for barbers across the city for four years.

Ben said: “We took over the business because it is a great location for a barber shop as it's located in a fantastic close-knit community.

“I live in the area, so I know how important the quality of service is to people; from young children to retired people - it is important we deliver a high standard that is affordable and in a timely manner.”

Ridgeway Barbers has been established for eight years prior to Josh and Ben taking over.

Josh said: “Ben and I met working at another barbers in the city. We were familiar with the Ridgeway area and the barbers itself, so when the opportunity came about we were certain it had a lot of potential. We want to grow the business and offer a quality service to the local people.

“It’s not easy working for yourself and we are fully aware of the challenge we have on our hands. Despite our age, we’re both qualified and experienced. We have started to build up repeat business, but any support the local community can give to us would be greatly appreciated.

Josh said: “People have been commenting on how brave we are to work for ourselves, but it feels like a natural step to be honest. We are more than happy putting the hours in and staying late as we know it’s for our benefit.

“Most people use barbers they have used for a long time and are in close proximity of where the live. All we ask is that people who live in the Ridgeway area and around Edward VII Avenue try us out. We’re two young local lads looking to add value into the area.”