UNLICENSED tattooists and body piercers are the target of an amnesty by Hertsmere Borough Council,

There are only two businesses in the borough licensed to carry out tattoos and piercing - but the council believes there are many more operating covertly from homes.

They have until May 7 to apply for a license. After that, they face a £1,000 fine if caught.

It also applies to people carrying out electrolysis and acupuncture.

Unsafe practices during any of these procedures can leave people with hepatitis, septicaemia, HIV and other transmittable infections.

Registered premises must display their registration form in a visible position.

Michael Georgiou, the council's principal environmental health officer, is leading the amnesty. He said: "Our regulations are in place to protect the public from unregistered businesses that may have below-standard hygiene levels.

He urges people to ask to see the businesses registration form before having any work undertaken.

Mr Georgiou added: "The aim is to encourage local businesses that may have not registered yet to do so.

"Perhaps you just didn't realise you had to register or you have simply not got around to it and are worried that by coming to the council now you'll be fined."

Michael Rose, owner of Michael Rose Tattoos and Piercing, due ti open soon in Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, said: "I totally support this campaign.

"It's really important that places are safe for customers to go to and this will hopefully challenge some misconceptions people have about standards of hygiene in businesses like mine.

"I work really hard to make sure everything safe and clean and I think that is really important."

For more information contact the environmental health department on 020 8207 7435 or visit www.hertsmere.gov.uk