The first barbers in a village for more than 60 years is opening very soon.

The Hairy Bear, named by local residents, is a joint venture between two Bearsted business men.

After running Marino Fish Bar for 25 years, it seems Donda Michaelas is now embracing clippers alongside cod.

Together with friend Wesley Mason, he is transforming the café section of his Ashford Road chip shop into a hair haven.

The 44-year-old said: "I saw an opportunity when my son Pedro had to go into Maidstone to find a barbers.

"I realised there was not one in Bearsted and after speaking to people, they agreed we could do with one."

Wesley Mason, who owns System For Safety just a few doors down, gave Mr Michaelas the final nudge he needed to start the business.

Mr Michaelas said: "I had the idea to turn it into a barbers a few years ago but it was put on hold when I was involved in a car accident.

"Wesley knew I was not in the position to do it on my own and he can be very persuasive. So we decided to do it together."

Until now, the café section of the fish bar has not been used for three years.

"I was working long days, often starting at 8am and finishing at 11pm. It was too much pressure, so I closed it."

Neither men have any experience in the hair business but have gained confidence through support from the village.

"We involved the community when choosing the name. We asked on Facebook and got over 200 ideas."

Mr Mason, 41, said: "I am a little bit apprehensive but also very excited. We have had lots of positive feedback already."

Four barbers have been employed by the pair, and service will run six days a week and on the last Sunday of every month.

A standard adult cut starts at £12.50, child cuts at £9.50 and a beard trim will set you back £4.50.

The Hairy Bear will be open from 9.30am on Wednesday, April 10, with the first two customers bagging free hair cut vouchers.

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