AN ILMINSTER-based hairdresser has reached the finals of an award and will compete with stylists from all over the world.

Ben Russell is in the finals of the Australian Hair and Fashion Awards for the category of Global Hairdresser of the Year.

Ben and 11 other stylists from all over the world have been recognised for their creative work and selected as a finalist representing Ilminster.

Ben’s collection from last year's British hairdressing awards collection Studio 54 is what has got him into the final.

Some of the biggest names from across the globe are in the final hairdressing legends such as Errol Douglas MBE.

Ben said: “It is such an honour to be recognised in England, let alone across the world. “Having my own salon, allows me to be creative and create my own work, and it means so much that people appreciate my art.

“It’s been a great year. We are in the final of the British hairdressing awards finalist for the Muddy Stiletto Awards and now Australian Hair and Fashion Awards, Global Hairdresser of the Year.

“It’s been an amazing year and I would just like to thank everyone for the support of all our friends family and clients without you this would it be possible.”