A new barber shop has opened on a popular high street.

Ismail Eyin, originally from the Aegean area of Turkey, decided to pick Hexham to set up his own Turkish barbers 'Smile Barber' on 14 Priestpopple.

Ismail thought it was the perfect time to open a business in Tynedale, after working in the area for several years.

"I’ve worked in Hexham for the past 4 years, I love the area and the people who have been so welcoming,“ Ismail explains.

"The aim was to provide a true Turkish Barber experience, showing our hospitality in a professional, enjoyable manner for all of my customers and the feedback I’ve received confirms that.

"The name of the business is our unique selling point for the business as my name is Ismail, and the Turkish pronunciation of Ismail is very similar to the English word smile.

"So I thought that it was perfect and also compliments the fact I’m always smiling."Hexham Courant:

The barbers opened on Monday, March 20 and according to Google 'Smile Barber' will be the 21st barber business in Hexham town centre - which does not worry Ismail.

Speaking about the open day, the competition and the future, Ismail said: "The open day went really well and I saw customers both old and new.

"We had lots of positive feedback about the refurb of the shop and the services we provide.

"When I talked to our customer, they said they were happy to see me back and were impressed with the shop and the range of services we offer.

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"Although there are over 20 barbers in Hexham; I’m not worried about the competition. "I’m confident in the service and experience I’m offering my customers and I’m prepared to work hard.

"I believe there’s enough hair to cut in Hexham for all of us.

"I’ve built strong links and relationships in the area in the four years that I’ve been here and I believe that will continue as my business grows.

"I’m so looking forward to the future and that I continue to come in to work every morning with a smile on my face."