A KIND hairdresser is cutting to the chase to help people left unemployed by the coronavirus pandemic.

May Smith, of Smith’s Barbers in West Kilbride Main Street, is offering a free haircut for the rest of the month to any man who has lost his job as a result of Covid-19 cutbacks.

The businesswoman, who has owned the shop for 11 years, says she knows something as simple as a haircut can mean a lot to people struggling.

May said: “I’m a mental health practitioner so I know the huge impact that the pandemic has had on people both mentally and physically.

“I realised that there is a good chance that people locally have lost their jobs during the pandemic and are perhaps struggling.

“From working in a barbers for many years, I know that a haircut can be a pick me up.

“It could also help people out financially because I know that money is tight at the minute, so I put the offer out and hopefully people will take me up on it."

May says that the response to her gesture from villagers has been fantastic.

She said: “A lot of people have responded saying that it is a great idea and a lovely gesture.

“Nobody has come into the shop yet but it’s early days so we are hoping it can will catch on.

“If there’s a guy that isn’t working due to the pandemic and unemployed then their children can also come along with them for a free haircut too.

“The village has supported me for so many years, it feels right to give something back. It’s not a big thing but it could have a big impact on someone.”

The hairdresser is appealing to residents not to be ashamed of taking up the chance to save a few shillings.

She explained: “I know there can be a bit of shame and embarrassment when these types of offers come out.

“The girls know not to ask any questions. Residents can send us a message and that will save any embarrassment.

“The community has really come together during the pandemic and hopefully I can do my bit to help with that.”

Smith’s Barbers was closed for four months at the height of lockdown, and May says although all safety measures are in place, trade has yet to return to normal levels.

She said: “The closure had a big impact on the business. I didn’t realise how many people would still be afraid of going out.

“There is a lot less people comfortable going to the barbers now, and others are working from home so are not getting haircuts as regularly.

“All of our health and safety is tight, we have social distancing, temperature checks, hand sanitiser and track and trace in place."

To take May up on the offer, private message the business on Facebook or walk-ins to see them.