STUCK for Christmas present ideas – why not buy your loved one a voucher to be eaten alive?

Handing over hard-earned cash to have your skin gnawed and nibbled piranha-style, is not most people’s idea of relaxation.

But visitors to the Eastgate Centre in Basildon, are expected to queue up to experience just that with the opening of a quirky new spa shop.

Dr Spa Fish, based on the lower mall next to Jane Norman, is offering a walk-in pedicure with a slight difference.

Instead of a beautician going to work on your feet with pumice and scrubs, something more natural will be nibbling off customers’ dead skin – thousands of fish.

Instead of soothing warm water, gutsy clientele will stick their feet into pools of water containing thousands of Garra Rufa fish.

The toothless fish, also known as Dr Fish, eat through the build-up of hard skin on the heels and soles of the feet getting rid of any dry skin, but leaving the healthy flesh untouched.

Bradley Carter, managing director of the shop, said: “It is a fantastic way for adults and children alike to relax and have fun.

“The natural pedicure gets rid of hard or flaky skin on the feet; effectively assists with treating psoriasis and eczema, improves blood circulation in the feet and also relaxes the body to reduce fatigue.

“We are extremely pleased to have the opportunity to share our unique pedicure experience with the people of Basildon.”

The treatment originated in Turkey more than 400 years ago, when the fish were discovered to be beneficial for a number of ailments.

Over the past few years the phenomenon has caught on all over the world.

Animal lovers should have no concerns, the treatment does not harm the little biters in any way.

Customers are also assured the fish tanks are equipped with special UV light filters and the water is cleansed between each treatment to ensure there are no germs.

Mike Horton, spokesman for the Eastgate Shopping centre, added: “We are very pleased that Dr Spa Fish has opened at Eastgate.

“This is a novel concept for foot care treatment, with knowledgeable staff and will prove an enjoyable experience for shoppers.”

A 15-minute session at the spa costs around £10.