HE’S expecting nothing less than a close shave when he takes on the best in Britain next month.

Luigi Caterino, from the Italian Job barbershop in Galashiels, landed the Best Wet Shaving Barber regional qualifying title a couple of weeks ago.

He was up against the best in Scotland - and won.

And now the 35-year-old will go blade to blade with the best from other parts of the country in a dramatic shave-off staged inside a boxing ring.

Luigi is busily preparing for the Cardiff final between cuts at his Channel Street shop.

He told us: “Every shave I do is a further bit of training ahead of the finals. After getting this far I have to go there with some confidence but it won’t be easy to win.

“It would be great, not just for the Italian Job barbershop, but also for Galashiels if I came back with the British championship.” Around 14,000 barbers from all over the country were invited to take part in the best shave competition which is run by the British Barbers Association with the backing of sponsors, The Bluebeards Revenge.

Throughout Britain, regional finals saw the number whittled down to just eight.

And they will all climb into a boxing ring at the prestigious Celtic Manor Hotel armed only with cut-throat razors, hot towels and months of preparation.

Luigi added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to show off my wet shaving skills and show the country I’m a cut above the rest.

“I come from a family of barbers which means I’m truly passionate about my trade and want to use this competition to build my reputation as one of the best wet shaving barbers in Britain.

“The Italian Job in Galashiels is approaching its first birthday - this would be a great way to celebrate.” The finalists will be judged on a number of criteria such as preparation, razor technique, after shave routine, health and safety and overall efficiency.