A Gosport hairdresser clinched a top award for the third time.

Andrew Smith, from Andrew Smith Salons, secured the Southern Hairdresser of the Year title at HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards 2024, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional.

This achievement elevates him into the elite Hall of Fame, having previously won the same title in 2019 and 2022.

Held at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House on Park Lane, London, the event drew over 1,400 guests to celebrate the winners of 19 awards, marking the 40th anniversary of the prestigious occasion.

The awards recognise the most exciting creative talents in UK hairdressing.

Andrew was up against five other finalists for the Southern title.

He impressed a panel of over 100 judges with a photographic collection that highlighted his range of hairdressing skills.

Speaking shortly after his win, Andrew said: "Well, I’m really not prepared for this—there were so many beautiful collections in my category. Thank you so much to Schwarzkopf Professional and Hairdresser’s Journal. I have such imposter syndrome right now, but this takes me into the Hall of Fame, and I can’t believe I’m joining this list of incredibly famous and talented people. I’m so very grateful."

The collection, consisting of eight images, was judged anonymously over two stages, following strict guidelines to ensure authenticity.

Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards, said: "The prestige of securing this title cannot be overstated. Andrew deserves to be celebrated – especially as this third win will see him entering the Hall of Fame at next year’s awards and making him the fifth hairdresser in the history of the awards to do this!

"Four decades since inception, HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards remain the most sought-after industry accolade. It is a real privilege to honour Andrew with this title."

Andrew’s recent victory makes him only the fifth hairdresser in the award’s 40-year history to achieve such success in the region.

The British Hairdressing Awards 2024 celebrated its ruby anniversary, marking 40 years of excellence in British hairdressing.

Guests embraced the occasion by incorporating 'a touch of red' into their outfits to reflect the celebratory theme.

Julian Crane, general manager for Henkel Consumer Brands Hair Professional UK & Ireland, said: "Forty years on, the British hairdressing industry remains as influential and creative as ever, with artists that continue to push boundaries and raise the bar."