Double delight for O'Neill's

Scroll down for Video

Failsworth-based O'Neill's Barber House won two major prizes at the English Hair and Beauty Awards Chapter 2.

At a swanky presentation ceremony, which took place at Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel, business owner Darren O'Neill (28) fought off some extremely tough competition to win both the North-West and the Overall Barber of the Year (spanning the North-West, North-East and Yorkshire) awards.

The awards recognise and celebrate those in the hair and beauty industry who make us look and feel our best and often go above and beyond to do so.

Unsurprisingly, Darren from the Barber House - which is based at number 1, Ashton Road East - was overjoyed.

He said: "It's a really good feeling, but it's something I've worked towards for a couple of years now.

"This is something I've always wanted to achieve, and I have put a lot of hard work and effort into this.

"It's nice to have been noticed after putting in all that work.

"There was eight nominations from the North-West region, but only two of those were from outside Manchester city centre.

"It's good for Failsworth to get this kind of recognition and win such a prestigious award.

"I want everyone to find out about this award now. Hopefully it will create a snowball effect and the shop will get busier and busier.

"I'm not going to stop here. I want to keep going with it now."

Darren, originally from Salford but who now lives around the corner from his shop, doesn't just cut hair.

He offers hair cutting services, clipper cutting, beard trims and cut throat shaves.

He is extremely busy as you may expect, so booking an appointment is advised.

Call 0161 222 7977 or log on to: www.oneillsbarberhouse.co.uk

Business is booming, so Darren has recently taken on an apprentice barber.

The English Hair and Beauty Awards Chapter 2 were hosted by Creative Oceanic, an events and marketing agency who are responsible for some of England’s most successful and well known events such as The English Wedding Awards and The English Hospitality Awards, among others.

Irfan Younis, CEO of Creative Oceanic, said: “Every year the industry keeps growing and improving and it was great to see old faces and new come together at the awards.

"We want to congratulate all the nominees and winners for this year and we hope to see you all next year too.”

The evening also helped to raise funds for Make A Wish Foundation, a charity which provides magical experiences to children and young people facing life-threatening conditions.