A HAIRDRESSER has been named best in the UK.

Brighton salon Simon Webster Hair was named “ultimate salon” at an industry awards ceremony this week, beating national chains and celebrity brands to the title.

It had been nominated for the creative salon title at The Salon Business Awards in London.

This went to a rival – but all nominees were eligible for the top award and, after a tense wait, the Gardner Street salon took home the accolade.

Owner Simon Webster said: “This is such an exciting time for the salon.

“We’re so passionate about what we do so to have this recognised by the publications we read and respect is really important.

“This is the ideal opportunity for us to show the country that Brighton is one of the most forward-thinking and innovative cities when it comes to business and we couldn’t be prouder to call it our home.”

Simon Webster Hair is also shortlisted for awards at two upcoming events run by top industry publications.

The salon is through to the finals of the Most Wanted Awards run by magazine Creative Head – widely regarded as the “Vogue” of the hairdressing world. Its awards are the most sought after in the industry.

The firm is also shortlisted in two categories at the British Hairdressing Business Awards, which recognise teams and individuals who work to raise the profile and professionalism of the industry.

In early June the salon took third place at the prestigious L’Oreal Colour Trophy Grand Final after competing against thousands of salons from all the over UK. It was the team’s third Colour Trophy prize in five years of trading.

Simon’s wife and business partner Sophie said: “When we opened, we wanted to bring the innovation and professionalism to the small, local salon environment that is expected from larger salon groups.

“We are immensely proud of the skill, dedication and creativity of the team that we have built and it is the recognition of that team that means the most to us.

“It is about everyone who works at the salon and the heart they bring to their work.

“We’re very proud of the work that our team do, the relationships they build with their clients and the difference they want to make to their industry and their community.”

The salon’s team contributes to charity events and city festivals including Pride and works regularly with Sussex Breast Cancer Care and the Clocktower Sanctuary to support their users in maintaining self-esteem and personal appearance.