AFTER a decade of training with leading hairdressers in London and around the world, a Somerset man has returned to his home county to launch his own top salon.

Ben Russell's new business opened in Ilminster's Silver Street on Wednesday, December 2, and has been fully booked for his first few days.

He said: ‘‘This really is a dream come true to be opening my first Salon in Somerset and I have even more exciting news to come in the New Year.

Ben, who is originally from Crewkerne, moved to London at the age of 19 in search of the top training in the country.

Within his time working in London’s West End, Ben attended the Videl Sassoon Academy, considered to be the most prestigious hair academy in the world.

In 2015, whilst working for The House of Rush he become a finalist in the British Hairdressing Awards and in the same year he walked away with the London L’Oreal Colour Trophy.

This catapulted Ben into the hair industry, and after a few more years building his profile, Ben decided to ply his trade down under.

He found a place working for Frank Apostolopoulos, one of Australia's top hairdressers, and was one of only just four people to become part of Australia’s 2018 fame team.

After being mentored by elite hairdressers from across the world and managing BIBA, a salon in Australia, there was only one more goal for Ben - opening his own salon.

The 28-year-old added: "Over the past 10 years I have been lucky enough to work with elite hairdressers and to be given the most wonderful experiences.

"In setting up my own salon my ambition is to show current and future hairdressers that anything is possible.

"I am delighted to have officially opened Ben Russell Hair Salon on December 2, and I look forward to welcoming new and existing customers."

Ben Russell Salon has been fully booked for his first week in business, opening from 7am until 9pm.

To get in touch or to book your own appointment, email BenRussellHair@gmail.com.

Alternatively, you can contact the salon on 01460 55686 or visit benrussellhair.co.uk.

The business is operating from 35 Silver Street, Ilminster, TA19 ODW.

Ben added: "Due to Covid-19, I please ask anyone looking to book any appointment to please contact in advance to avoid disappointment. Thank you."