A Weybridge man was named Southern Hairdresser of the Year at an award ceremony at Grosvenor House in Park Lane, on Tuesday, November 23.

Leo Bancroft, who runs Leo Bancroft hair salon in Oatlands Drive, picked up the accolade from X Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary, at the British Hairdressing Awards ceremony.

He competed against five other stylists to win on the night, which was also a special occasion for the award ceremony, celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Leo said he was overwhelmed to win the prestigious title and thanked the rest of his staff at the salon.

He said: “I am so pleased. It means so much to not only myself but everyone connected with Leo Bancroft.

“This award is also a great tribute to the fantastic hairdressing talent and creativity within our area. This year has been a fantastic year for the entire team at the salon and I would like to dedicate this award to them as, without their amazing help and support, I would not have won this award.”

The 1,750 guests attending the event sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, dubbed the Oscars of the hairdressing world, were also treated to entertainment from the London Community Gospel Choir.

Editor-in-chief of Hairdresser Journal International, Jayne Lewis-Orr, said: “British hairdressing is renowned throughout the world for its creativity and innovation, and with the British Hairdressing Awards we are recognising, rewarding and celebrating the best of British. Leo should be incredibly proud of his achievements.”

For more information on the Weybridge hair salon, visit leobancroft.com.

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