Couple open new business offering barbering and design in Gosport high street

David and Mandy Rose have opened Black Rose Barber Collective in High Street.

While David will be offering bespoke tailored barbering from the front part of the shop, Mandy will be offering her creative design services from the offices behind.

The married couple, from Gosport, who have two children Dawson, three, and Caelan, 10, are hoping that people will support them in their new venture – after they saw the potential of Gosport high street.

David, 38, said: ‘For us, as a small business, we understand how difficult it is to run a small business and how important local support is.

‘People need to use their local businesses, everyone needs to support them, if they don’t it’s to the detriment of the high street.

‘I want Gosport to pick up and be vibrant and more independent, and that can only be done if people support the small businesses. If they are successful, that will encourage others to come through.’

David retrained as a barber three years ago after leaving his admin job at a ferry firm.

Until recently he has been working at another barbers in Gosport but wanted to branch out on his own.

The unit became available when Fairhalls Estate Agents upgraded and moved into larger premises across the road.

Not put off by the second lockdown or the pandemic, David, who also coaches children's’ football team Gosport Seagulls, decided to take on the shop and follow his dream.

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They gutted the shop and refurbished it, using Mandy’s design skills to bring it up to their standard, and opening on the first day after lockdown.

David said: ‘It has been quite busy. Hopefully through lockdown, people have seen that there are businesses right here in Gosport. Lockdown might have opened people’s eyes a little to what’s on their doorsteps.’

Mandy, who is still working full-time, hopes to follow David into the shop next year.

The shop, which is temporarily closed this week, will reopen on Monday.

To book an appointment go to facebook.com/blackrosebarbercollective

The News launched its #supportlocal campaign earlier this year.

The campaign urges people to shop local in order to protect small businesses, boost the local economy and show community spirit.

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