A MAN who was formerly unemployed has set up in business and vowed to help other people follow in his footsteps.

Franklin Depoe recently launched his barber shop, Perfect Kutz, in Middlesbrough, with the help of recruitment and training specialists Pertemps People Development Group (PPDG).

The 28-year-old has now struck a deal with Pertemps to supply grooming services to its clients to help increase their chances of being successful in job interviews.

Mark Fryett, Pertemps' manager in Middlesbrough, said: "It's a good idea for us to link up with Franklin's business as it will help both him and us.

"It's important to prepare clients in every way for interviews and having a shave or a haircut can make a massive difference to a person's appearance.

"As a company we always look to re-invest in our clients who have moved into self-employment by ensuring that they have the opportunity to supply services to our business."

Mr Depoe said: "I have wanted my own business for a long time so this means a lot to me. The help PPDG gave me was really important as it has got me to this stage and now I'm really moving forward with my life."