Former WBA middleweight boxing champion, Martin Murray, was spotted in Winnington this week, on a trip to his ‘go-to’ barber.

Martin has been going to Ilham’s Barbers in Warrington for more than 10 years, but this is the first time he’s visited the Winnington branch on Walker Road. 

Martin competed professionally from 2007 to 2020, holding the WBA interim middleweight title from 2011 to 2014, the British and Commonwealth middleweight titles between 2010 and 2012, and challenged five times for a world title.

He said he’s ‘always happy’ with his cut, and has even introduced friends over the years, with many ending-up regular customers.  

Northwich Guardian: (L to R): Martin Murray and Ilham Bedge outside Ilham's Barbers on Walker Road, Winnington (L to R): Martin Murray and Ilham Bedge outside Ilham's Barbers on Walker Road, Winnington (Image: Ilham's Barbers)

Martin said: “I had my first haircut with Ilham more than 10 years ago now, and I’ve always come back. He’s my go-to barber.

“I’m always happy with what he’s done, and it’s great to see his new shop in Winnington and how much work he’s put into it.

“I’ve even brought friends to him. A mate of mine travelled over from St. Helens for a haircut last week.

“I’m sure his Winnington shop will be just as successful as his Warrington ones."

Ilham opened his Winnington barbershop in December 2021, though he also has shops in Stockton Heath and Padgate. 

Ilham said: “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 usually cut his hair at one of my shops in Warrington, but I’m spending four days a week in Winnington now.

"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.”