Barbers of the Year: The Gentry are cut above the rest

A popular Lincoln barbers has proven to be a cut above the competition, after being named the best in the East and West Midlands at a national awards ceremony.

Appearing at the English Hair and Beauty Awards, which held Chapter 4 of its national awards rollout for 2023 in Nottingham on Sunday, March 26, Lincoln-based barbers The Gentry picked up a major accolade.

The Gentry, located on West Parade, was named as Barbers of the Year for the whole of the East and West Midlands at the ceremony, which has been described as a “huge achievement” by the barbers’ management team.

The Gentry can be found on West Parade in Lincoln. | Photo: The Gentry

Staff at The Gentry are able to cut a number of varied hairstyles. | Photo: The Gentry

The English Hair and Beauty Awards, organised each year by Creative Oceanic, is a celebration of the industry’s finest professionals and businesses across the country – granting awards across a range of hair and beauty categories.

The Lincoln-based business snipped through a host of competitors across the regions to claim the prize of top barber in the East and West Midlands for 2023.

The award now sits proudly inside the barbershop. | Photo: The Gentry

The overriding message is once of acceptance of all styles and looks. | Photo: The Gentry

Owner and proprietor at The Gentry, Mary Ann Barrett, said: “Our nomination came as a pleasant surprise initially, but actually winning the award for Best Barber in the East and West Midlands is just a brilliant reward for all the hard work everyone has contributed in their time here at the Gentry.

“A huge thank you to all our clients, past and present. We have the most amazing clientele.

“The night was made even more special by sharing the evening with other brilliant Lincoln businesses – Total FX, Dumbblonde hair and HWN.Aesthetics.

“Our aim is to always create happy clients, not to win awards; but it’s a lovely accolade after 25 years in the business and 12 of those building The Gentry.”

Staff from The Gentry at the awards ceremony in Nottingham. | Photo: The Gentry

Manager at The Gentry, Will Watson, said the creativity and drive of the staff leaves them always wanting more, and he hopes for similar success in the future.

He said: “The nomination alone was a big shock, we are a relatively small barbershop in a relatively small city, so when we were selected as finalists we felt a bit like ‘why us?’

“We went to the evening expecting to have a good time and meet fellow people in the industry, so it’s been a really nice way to feel recognised for all the staff.

“This could be a real stepping stone for us. It is amazing to win that award but if anything, now we need to take two steps forward.”

| Photo: The Gentry

A spokesperson for The English Hair and Beauty Awards 2023 said: “It has been an unforgettable night, filled with incredible food, entertainment, vibrant energy, and passionate conversations.

“Winning an award in this prestigious competition is a significant achievement, as it acknowledges the talent and hard work of hair and beauty professionals and sets a benchmark for others to follow.

“The winners of these awards represent the highest standards of quality and service in the English hair and beauty industry.

“We have celebrated the finest professionals and businesses in England, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved industry.

“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event.”

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