A TATTOOIST is making his mark on Carnforth after setting up the town’s first body art and piercing parlour.

Darren High, 30, opened Skin Vandal Tattoos, on New Street, in November and has been busy with bookings ever since.

But some locals have told the tattooist there is no place for his business in the traditional railway town.

“I find the majority of people are friendly but some small-minded people don’t seem to want my shop here and I have been told I don’t belong in the town,” said Mr High.

“Some of them say they feel intimidated because of the sort of people who come into the shop but they are just normal people.

“I suppose I look a bit scary but if they took the time to talk to me they would find out I am far from that.”

Pat Seward, owner of The Carnforth Book Shop, on Market Street, said she was happy to see some variation in the local businesses.

She said: “My shop is opposite a bargain booze, a betting shop and two pubs so I don’t see it as a problem. He has got a good reputation and seems to be very nice.”

Lancaster and Carnforth councillor Bob Roe said: “As long as he is complying with health and safety regulations I can’t see a problem.”

Mr High has 327 tattoos all over his body and has worked as a professional tattooist for 13 years.

He moved to North Lancashire from Blackpool last year to be closer to his family.

He said: “I absolutely love Carnforth and there is nothing like my shop in the town.

“Black and grey tattoos and portraits seem to be the most popular around here.

“The most unusual request I have had was from a lady in her 50s who asked for a Banner racing car tattooed on her hip.”

Throughout February, Mr High will offer red heart tattoos for £10 and will donate all proceeds to the British Heart Foundation.

For more information call: 01524-737799.