The former leader singer of a pop mega-group travelled to Northwich this week where he had the ‘best haircut he has ever had since arriving in the UK'.

Ray Lewis, who was lead singer of US group The Drifters from 1986 to 2022, visited Ilham’s Barbers in Winnington after it had been recommended by a friend.  

Ray said: "It is the best haircut I’ve ever had since being in the UK."

Owner of Ilham’s Barbers, Ilham Begde, said: "His hair was really difficult, and I understand why he is so picky. It had to be scissors and comb.

"His is afro hair, and not many barbers can cut afro hair, especially with scissors.

"We were recommended to him, which is why he travelled all the way from Leeds. He was quite nervous at first, but in the end, he said it was the best cut he’s had in the UK.

Northwich Guardian: Ray Lewis of The Drifters and Ilham outside the Winnington barbersRay Lewis of The Drifters and Ilham outside the Winnington barbers (Image: Ilham Begde)

"He was very appreciative as he was giving a speech that night. Hopefully we will see him here again."

Ilham has a long list of celebrity clients, including former Manchester United players Norman Whiteside and Bryan Robson, Emmerdale’s Michael Parr, and boxers Joe Calzaghe, Carl Frampton, Martin Murray, Marco Antonio Barrera, Nigel Benn and Ricky Fielding.