A COLCHESTER barbers is celebrating a decade of business.

Berechurch Barbers, in William Harris Way, had been due to mark its tenth birthday shortly before the country went into lockdown.

Instead, with the pandemic sweeping the country, they were forced to close and all talk of marking the occasion was put on the backburner.

Nevertheless, it remains a special milestone for this family-run barbers.

Owner Katie Sutton is rightly proud of the business, the Gazette’s latest Trader of the Week, which she jointly runs with brother, Jim, and sister, Chloe.

“We’re very much a family-run business and our customers’ reviews reflect our hard work and dedication,” she said.

“In particular, we’ve had some great reviews from parents with autistic children, saying how they feel safe and comfortable visiting us.

“We pride ourself on our patience and care and making their experience as calming as possible.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved in our ten years.

Braintree and Witham Times:

“This is my first business and I run it alongside my brother, Jim, and sister, Chloe.

“Both of them decided to join the family business and become barbers.

“We were due to celebrate our anniversary a few days before we went into lockdown but, unfortunately, we didn’t get to do anything because we had to close.”

Braintree and Witham Times:

Four self-employed barbers work at Berechurch Barbers.

And the popular business is clearly a hit with customers.

Stephanie Grimwood was one of those who nominated it for our Trader of the Week feature and said: “The staff are so lovely.

“I take my son there and, as he’s so young, I’ve always found it difficult finding somewhere he feels comfortable.

“But I feel happy to go there and have his hair cut by anyone.

“They make it an amazing experience and are such a kind, caring team.

“Whatever your age, you’re always the centre of attention.”

  • Help us celebrate our unique traders here in Colchester, Tendring and across north Essex.

Every week we will shine the spotlight on one special person or business – and we want to hear from you.

If you would like to put forward your business for this page, send us some details and picture by clicking here.