AN Ilminster stylist has been shortlisted for the prestigious Wales & South West Hairdresser of the Year title at HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards 2022.

Ben Russell, from Ben Russell Salon in Ilminster, has reached the finals of the national hairdressing competition sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional.

He said: “This is such a proud moment for me. These awards always bring together such exceptional talent from all over Great Britain and to see my name alongside those shortlisted is mind-blowing.

“I’d love to bring the trophy back to Ilminster and hope the judges will recognise the love and hard work that has gone into my collection.”

Now in their 38th year, the awards are an annual celebration of hairdressing excellence, recognising the remarkable achievements of stylists from across the United Kingdom.

All winners will be announced at a Black-Tie event to be held on Monday, November 28 at Grosvenor House, at J W Marriott Hotel on London’s Park Lane.

Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards said: “In reaching the finals, Ben has demonstrated excellence in all areas of their craft, and an ability to bring together the magical elements that make a photographic collection stand out from the competition.”