Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) held an annual Barber Bash event at The McMillan Theatre, 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 the industry from across the region, Paul Taylor-Clinch kindly 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 remarkable talent; utilising all the skills and techniques they’ve developed throughout their course.

Then, an award ceremony took place, crowning the victors and acknowledging what was an impressive showcase of skills from every one who participated on the day.

Congratulations to Tom Brooks for achieving 1st place in the Level 2 student competition, with Mackenzie Henderson in 2nd place, and Max Chave in 3rd.

For the Level 3 student competition, Lucas Giani came in 1st place, with Lulu Milton in 2nd place, and Evan Juniper in 3rd.

A fantastic effort from all involved!

Closing out the evening, an industry expert’s competition was a fabulous display of the artistry that emanates from barbering, and the audience watched on in anticipation at the final results.

Thank you to 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

Richard Bell, said,

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 our Barbering course offerings and facilities, please visit www.btc.ac.uk, call Information & Guidance on 01278 441234, or come to one of our events.