A NEW tattoo studio has opened in Pickering.

Tattoo artist Em Hodgson has set up her studio in The Balance Rooms, a health and wellness centre in Smiddy Hill.

“I bumped into the owner of The Balance Rooms, Chantelle Dawson while walking the dogs where we both live,” said Em, who has been tattooing for more than six years.

“The next day I bumped into her again and she asked if I was interested in using the spare treatment room. It was a no brainer for me.”

After studying illustrations at the University of Cumbria, Em became a tattoo artist after taking up an apprenticeship at Inkwell Arts Tattoo Studio in Thirsk. She decided to go freelance in December.

“Working in The Balance Rooms is a completely different vibe to a classic tattoo studio; many people have said how intimidating walking into a tattoo studio can be,” said Em. “Having an approachable space to talk about ideas has allowed certain people, mainly over 50s, to contemplate a tattoo they have always wanted.”