THE spirit of two tattoo artists is being carried on with a venture set up in their memory.

Mick and Bob’s Tattoo Shop was due to be moving into new premises in May Place, Winton Square, in February this year, but owner Bob Vince suffered a heart attack and died at the age of 59.

Bob, with Mick Richardson, had owned the shop together for 27 years and it was widely regarded to be one of the original tattoo shops in Basingstoke.

The shop is being carried on, at least in spirit, by tattooist Paul Butler, who worked with Bob before he passed away, with the new venture being opened last month

Paul is paying homage to the artist with whom he started his career around 20 years ago.

The new premises, in Essex Road, is named Iron Works Tattoo with ‘in memory of Mick and Bob’ added on the shop sign.

Anne Whatley, Paul’s friend and loyal customer, said: “Paul’s done it all himself, and he’s now very busy after he’s opened.

“He’s been booked solid, and not stopped since re-doing the whole shop for a total of three months.

“The original name had to be on there somewhere, as it really was the end of a legend and it was important that their names are remembered.

“I know Paul, and he will definitely follow in the footsteps of Bob and Mick. He’s a quiet man who is very unassuming, but he is very good at what he does.

“He’s got quite a following having done tattoo work locally for around 20 years, especially as he was involved in the previous shop.

“Mick and Bob’s shop used to be so friendly, and both myself and my husband would go in for a cup of tea and a chat.

“While it was very informal, it was a great place to be, we were often told to put the kettle on ourselves! I know that Paul will do just as good a job.”

The ribbon was cut to open Iron Works on July 11.