Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) held its annual Barber Bash event at The McMillan Theatre, Bridgwater, where barbers competed for the coveted BTC Barber of the Year title and trophy.
Organised by Richard Bell, Course Leader, the event is a staple of the BTC community, bringing together a diverse crowd of various talents – whether veteran barbers with years of experience, or students looking to excel in the next generation of the industry.
Celebrating talent and showcasing industry talent from across the region, Paul Taylor-Clinch acted as head judge.
Paul spent two years working with the world-famous Schorem Barbers in Rotterdam and worked at Granada Studios during their time working on BBC smash-hit Peaky Blinders.
Now, Paul owns Black Sails barber shop in Bath and gave a live demonstration at the event to an enticed crowd.
Paul said: “It was great to be able to take part in BTC’s Barber Bash and support the students at the starting point of their career.”
Level 2 students started the afternoon with a competition, showcasing their skills and creativity live on stage.
Following this, Level 3 students impressed their audience and displayed their talents, using all the skills and techniques they had developed throughout their course.
Then, an award ceremony took place, crowning the victors and acknowledging what was an impressive showcase of skills from every participate of the day.
Tom Brooks was named as the winner in the Level 2 student competition, with Mackenzie Henderson in second place and Max Chave in third.
For the Level 3 student competition, Lucas Giani was first, with Lulu Milton in second place, and Evan Juniper in third.
Closing out the evening, an industry expert’s competition saw a fabulous display of the artistry that emanates from barbering.
The college thanked each industry expert for representing their barber shops and participating:
• Danny, Mane Somerset, Bridgwater
• Joe, Black Hound Barber Co, Bridgwater
• Chris, The Handsome Stag, Bridgwater
• Andreea, Don Barber, Taunton
• Charles, Elite Barber Lounge, Bridgwater
• Myles, Urban Barber Shop, Bridgwater
• James, Studio 40, Chard
Mr Bell added: “The support we get from our local barbering industry is amazing – the inspiration and feedback you offer to our students is greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the industry experts that took part in this celebration of talent – Danny, Joe, Chris, James, Andreea, Charles and Myles, thank you.
“The level of work this year from both our Level 2 and Level 3 barbering students has been excellent, and all our learners should be very proud of what they have achieved.
“The fantastic photography of the evening was thanks to local photographer and events planner Lydia Bell – thank you for your support at this incredible event.”
For more information about barbering course offerings and facilities, visit www.btc.ac.uk, call information and guidance on 01278 441234, or got along to a college event.
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