A NEW barbershop has opened at a popular Manningtree gym thanks to a unique partnership.

Nathan Lawrence, 29, has opened his barber shop at the Live Fit Gym, in Station Road, Lawford, after becoming business partners with gym owner, Jack Cardy.

Nathan, of California Road, Mistley, who has been a barber for eight years, said the idea is to combine a haircut with a workout after work or during the day.

The 29-year-old hairdresser said this is his first solo venture, which is daunting but very exciting.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

“I had cut the gym owner’s hair for a while and we had discussed the different ventures which would work within a gym setting,” he added.

“It has been done in London and various big cities and we discussed whether it would work in an area like Manningtree.

"The first few days were very exciting but slightly daunting with the PPE situation."

Gym owner Jack Cardy, 28, said he was looking at partnering up with another business as they have a lot of free space at the gym, following last year's renovation.

“We were looking at options which would compliment best our service, we looked at the idea of a coffee shop, but we thought a barber, or hairdressers would be our best bet,” Jack said.

“We decided to go with Nathan, and he grabbed on the opportunity straight away.

“He has a big following in Manningtree and now his clients are coming through our doors.

“Nathan has been extremely busy in the past few days and is fully booked.”

Nates Barbershop, which opened for the first time on Saturday, has a fully booked schedule until July 17.

To book an appointment or find out more visit facebook.com/natesbarbershop112.