A barber whose shop was badly damaged after an Audi careered into it has thanked customers for their support – and says he hopes to be back soon.
Phil Townend has been forced to temporarily close his Philip Nicholas barbers at Stanningley Bottom in Pudsey after a car driven by a suspected drink driver ploughed through the front of his building in the early hours of Thursday. Mr Townend told customers in an e-mail:
“You may have heard that, unfortunately, a car has crashed into the room which we sublet to James, the tattooist. Although most of the damage was on his side, there is also significant damage in the barbershop side too. We really don’t know how the windows didn’t smash.
“We intend to start re-booking appointments soon. Lee and Jimmy will be working from The Edge Boutique salon in Morley, Esmee wil be at the H.I.V.E, opposite where we are now, and Phil will be working from Bella Bonce, three doors up from the Great Northern.”
Mr Townend added:
“Although the obvious damage is on his side, there is also significant damage on the barbers’ side. the ceilings have had to be propped up on both sides, dividing walls have been demolished, the electrics aren’t on and the water has had to be turned off as a pipe burst. Our temporary workstation was also destroyed.
“We shall be temporarily be working from the temporary locations until the shop is made safe and the necessary building work has been done.
“Thanks to everyone who has sent messages of support or supported us financially. It’s very much appreciated. We hope to be back soon.”
As WLD reported yesterday, a crowdfunder has been launched to support both businesses by Steven Lightfoot, who runs nearby Pudsey Computers. The £2,000 target was passed today and the total raised currently stands at more than £2,400.
The crowdfunder can be found here.
A Pudsey man was yesterday arrested on suspicion of drink driving, failing to stop and assault of police officers.