A seventh tattoo studio has opened in Ashford town centre but the owner says he is not worried about the competition and hopes to bring something new to the market.

Rosewell's Tattoo Studio has taken over the empty unit previously used by employment agency MC Personnel in the high street.

Artist Tomas Paul Rosewell, who specialises in black and grey realism and portraits, has been tattooing for almost 20 years.

Despite the high number of other sites in the town centre, Mr Rosewell is hoping to stand out as he says he is "not the run-of-the-mill tattoo shop".

"I do a lot of portraits that are personal to people," the 34-year-old said.

"We have a nice, clean, up-to-date modern studio where you can get lattes and a better personal experience all round.

"I'm trying to bring something fresh and appealing within keeping of the churchyard and the historic area.

"Sometimes people can feel intimidated going into tattoo places, but I want people to feel at ease.

"With the year we have just had, to come out of it starting a business is really positive."

The building, in the section of town known as Middle Row, is Grade II-listed and sits near St Mary the Virgin Church.

It is a short walking distance from competitors Bobinski's Tattoo Studio, Inking Out Loud and Wyldfire to name a few.

The studio officially opened on Thursday and is already fully booked for the next two months.

Mr Rosewell lives in Sutton Road, Maidstone, but felt Ashford offered the perfect opportunity as many of his customers are already in the area.

The father-of-three added: "It was a logical move and I really like that as it's a listed building with a lot of character, it's perfect for us.

"I have been wanting to do this for a long time but circumstances get in the way. Now, after 20 years, I've finally done it.

"My customers are following me to the town so it's nice to bring something to the high street and hopefully make it a bit busier."

It will be open from 10am to 6am each day, with the exception of Sundays.