A North Belfast barber has been offering free haircuts to help the local community in the run up to Christmas.
Kevin McCloskey has been running the initiative for the past few years in the week before Christmas, but said this year has been the busiest yet as people continue to deal with the cost of living crisis.
In a post on Facebook, he said: "Don’t hesitate to contact if you are struggling we would love to help you!"
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Last year, as well as offering free haircuts during the festive season, Kevin McCloskey BarberCo on the Antrim Road also offered free haircuts for anyone struggling with their mental health to help give a bit of a lift.
Speaking to Belfast Live, Kevin, who opened his barber shop five years ago, said it's all about trying to help out as much as possible.
"As a local business, it's nice to be able to help wherever you can. If it's someone getting a free haircut, or someone getting a free beer when they're in for a haircut, something to make people feel a wee bit better," he explained.
"That's what a haircut's all about, coming in and being part of a community and feeling comfortable in the shop."
Kevin said this year has been the busiest so far, with new faces as well as customers who have stopped by before. He said anyone interested in calling in shouldn't feel embarrassed, and shouldn't hesitate to get in touch.
"It's been getting a bit busier each year, but this year has definitely been the busiest. People might be a bit embarrassed to come in but they shouldn't be," Kevin added.
"Every year, we see some of the same people coming in, but we're picking up new people all the time, so it's good to help out. There's more coming in every year now and getting involved.
"Coming from the pandemic, people need that bit of a lift and it's nice to be able to give that helping hand.
"It's only a free haircut, it doesn't cost us anything but our time, and it's worth it to make someone feel a bit more at ease coming up to Christmas.
"It means they have a couple of pounds in their pocket they may not have had otherwise."
The free Christmas haircuts are taking place from December 12 until December 18, and you can find out more here.
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