RESIDENTS at a Poole care home can finally enjoy regular barber appointments, thanks to a mobile salon contained in a van.

Gents at Upton Bay Care Home, in Hamworthy, were treated to a visit from the Grade 92 mobile barbershop, as the van made its inaugural trip to the home on Monday December 6.

Experienced barber George Hatch spent an afternoon offering appointments to each of the residents, booking in for a mix of cuts, styles and shaves.

Complete with step-free access and a traditional, adjustable barber chair, George’s van was fully equipped to make a simple haircut accessible to all, no matter their mobility.

Bournemouth Echo: Gents at Upton Bay Care Home, in Poole, were treated to a visit from barber George Hatch and the Grade 92 mobile barbershop, as the van made its inaugural trip to the home on Monday December 6. Photo credit: Sophie Payne

“It was fantastic,” said David, resident, after his beard trim. “I’ve never seen a whole barbershop on wheels before.”

Grade 92 has shops at Castlepoint and Southbourne Grove, with their customers including some big AFC Bournemouth names.

After a full day of back-to-back appointments, George said: “It was lovely to chat to the residents and get to know them a bit during each cut. They each had a story or two to tell in the chair.”

General Manager Mevin Sohorye added: “A trip to the barbers can be such an important part of a man’s routine. Being able to bring that normality back to our gents has been heart-warming.

“We’re proud to be partnering with individuals and local businesses like George and Grade 92, who understand the importance of vaccinations, testing and PPE. It keeps life moving for our residents.”