AN INDEPENDENT tattoo shop is flourishing in the centre of Horley.
Seven Sins Tattoo shop opened at the top of the High Street in 2000 with just two members of staff – now there are six members and the appointment book is full until June.
The store's flourishing reputation has brought in customers from as far afield as Norway and owner Chic Child says he has no plans to go anywhere since moving into the pedestrian district last year.
"The industry has exploded and we are going from strength to strength," the 53-year-old former graphic designer said.
"People will always travel to somewhere worth travelling to and business is flourishing and thriving here."
He added: "Horley always used to be independent; now there's the guitar shop and gun shop and I think it's a good thing."
The store's success and enduring appeal is due, in part, to footballers and pop stars making body art more acceptable to the wider public, he says.
But Mr Child, who started in the business around 17 years ago with Eternal Tattoos in Dorking, says amateur tattooists – who he refers to as "scratchers" – are causing problems for the industry.
Reputable stores, such as Seven Sins, often have to carry out cover up work on such substandard tattoos.
"They are unlicensed, uninsured and unregulated," Mr Child told the Mirror.
"You can't be sure of the work they produce, the art standard is often really low."
As a result he would like to see stronger regulation on the industry.
"Anyone with enough money can meet the health criteria at the moment," he added.
"There is no standard check on work."
As with all fashions, tattoos are changing. From the David Beckham-inspired neck tattoo and tribal designs to the current fad for religious icons such as angels and cherubs.
Since Seven Sins outgrew its original premises last year, Mr Child has a ten-year lease on the current store, where they also offer bespoke clothing and artwork made by staff and friends.
He said: "I hadn't planned to come to the High Street, but it has been a revelation. So many new people have come through the door."
