A BARBER who was soaked with sulphuric acid in a mystery attack at his Southampton salon is back in business.

Brave Andy Sinclair reopened his business on Monday just seven weeks after nearly being blinded in a horrendous attack by a man dressed as a clown.

The 51-year-old has amazed doctors with his rapid recovery from the bizarre incident, in which a man wearing a bright orange wig, tartan cap and blue boiler suit burst into his shop and threw acid over him.

After suffering agonising injuries to his face and body, Mr Sinclair received painstaking treatment at Odstock specialist burns unit in Salisbury.

Detectives said only his spectacles saved the barber from being blinded by the lethal chemical, which penetrated his clothing and skin.

Now, after undergoing skin grafts, Mr Sinclair has bravely returned to run his salon in Victoria Road, Woolston, where the attack happened on June 12.

"I am now more or less back to fitness," he said.

"Although the grafts have taken really well, I will be permanently disfigured on my face, arms, legs and everywhere. They will always be discoloured.

"I don't feel nervous about returning to my shop as I can't see somebody coming back a second time.

"I certainly didn't know the assailant - the man himself is a complete mystery to me. However, I am still hopeful this man will be caught."

Paying tribute to his loyal customers Mr Sinclair added: "I would like to thank everybody who sent in get well messages while I have been in hospital. They have been a tremendous boost to me."

The vicious attack at Andy's Hairstyling was reconstructed on the BBC's Crimewatch UK series in early July.

Detectives working on the investigation are busy following up possible new leads after receiving around 75 calls generated by the television appeal.

Anyone who thinks they might have information is asked to contact the Operation Riverbourne team on 0845 045 4545 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.