A FORMER Emmerdale star visited his 'favourite barbershop' in Winnington this week, to help help him prepare for his latest film role.  

Actor Michael Parr, who is about to travel to India to make a film set in the 1920s, wanted to visit his barber of 13 years, Ilham Begde, to get the 'perfect' haircut for his new role.

Michael, who is originally from St Helens, played roguish heartthrob Ross Barton in the award-winning soap opera from 2013 to 2018.

The 36-year-old was starring in the St Helens Theatre Royal’s stage adaptation of the cult 1980s film Rita, Sue and Bob Too until last Sunday (November 13).

Northwich Guardian: Ilham has been cutting Emmerdale star Michael Parr's hair for 13 years (Ilham's Barbers)Ilham has been cutting Emmerdale star Michael Parr's hair for 13 years (Ilham's Barbers) (Image: Ilham's Barbers)

Michael said: “I’ve been back in St Helen’s doing Rita, Sue and Bob Too at the Theatre Royal, and it was a perfect opportunity for me to get over to Ilham’s.

“His scissor cuts are so good, and because I’m going on to shoot a film in India in the next few weeks, I needed my hair cut in a 1920s style. He’s got it looking perfect.

“I’ve got to have a moustache for the film and he’s given me the best beard cut I’ve had in years.

“When I was in Emmerdale, people would message me online asking how I got my hair in that style, and I would tell them to go see my mate Ilham.”

Ilham Begde's Winnington barbershop opened in December 2021, and he also has shops in Stockton Heath and Padgate. 

Ilham said: “I’ve been cutting Michael’s hair for 13 years now. His grandfather lives in St Helens, and whenever he comes up to visit, he always calls in to see me.

“Celebrity clients are usually more demanding, but they have to be. All eyes are on them, so they can’t just walk into any barbershop and take a chance.

“I could have cut his hair at my shops in Padgate or Stockton Heath, but I’m spending four days a week in Winnington at the moment.

"I absolutely love this little village. It’s really cool, and the people here are so nice. I try my very best to bring as many people to the village as I can, including the biggest names on my list.

“We’re expecting Ray Lewis from the Drifters in the next couple of weeks. They’re huge.”