Lockdown: Shop owner celebrates new life in turbulent year

John Dudley, of Lovett tattoo & piercing shop, shared some pictures of his new-born daughter Octavia with the Sutton Guardian. 

He talks to us about his highs and lows of the pandemic - as he receives little to no support with none of his staff on furlough. 

"We opened our little tattoo shop on Wallington high street end of 2019, not long before lockdowns kicked off! 

I and my business partner, have been on edge as you can imagine as we put all our hard work and savings into getting our dream going. 

"We were fortunate that in the time we were allowed to be open last year, that we were quite busy but the funds as you can imagine are running out." 

John went onto say that there is a limited amount of grants he could apply to due to having a lack of tax records as a new business. 

Lovett Tattoo is based at Zohan barbers on Wallington High Street

"We did receive a small grant from Sutton council, which has helped a little but not enough to cover everything so, we have still been losing money," he added.

If lockdowns were to carry on for much longer, I know we would sadly have to call it a day like many other small businesses. 

"Luckily, we have a fairly loyal client base so far and, many are eager to get back in the chair as soon as we open so I really can’t wait! 

"On the positive side of having to stay at home all this time; my wife gave 
birth to our second daughter Octavia on October 1st - so I have had the pleasure of spending some amazing time with my wife and two daughters.

"I’m happy that we can see a possible light at the end of the tunnel as it has been incredibly tough." 

Have you been affected by the pandemic? Contact us at monica.charsley@newsquest.co.uk to share your experience.