The Salon at Langley Park has been named Retail Salon of the Year 2020 at the The Joico Conference Awards. There was double cause for celebration when Patrick McNicholas, the Salon Manager, also won the coveted Colourist of the Year award.

125 other hair salons nationwide took part in the awards conference via a socially distanced ZOOM ceremony on 24 January. It was a highly successful event for the Durham salon as they were also announced as runners up in the most Social Savvy Salon category.

Michael Embleton and Alan Armstrong own The Salon which is based on front Street in Langley Park. They were delighted when the awards were announced.

Michael said: “We were so honoured to receive the Retail Salon of the Year 2020 award. I’d like to thank our experienced hairdressing team for their hard work, skills and dedication. They create the friendly and welcoming atmosphere which has helped us to grow from strength to strength.”  

Patrick McNicholas joined The Salon 8 years ago. He is an expert in the latest cutting and colouring techniques. When his name was read out as a winner, he was in total shock.

He said:“I am so excited to have won first place as the Joico Colourist of the Year. I could not have achieved this award without the continuous support from both Alan and Michael. They just want the very best for all the team. They both encourage everyone at The Salon to reach for their goals, no matter what they may be.”

Michael is passionate about educating the next generation of hair stylists and enjoys passing his knowledge on to the young hairdressers of today. The Salon works in partnership with New College Durham to give young apprentices a high-quality education. Current apprentices Nikki I’anson and Cody Jones are gaining experience working alongside Michael and his skilled team while studying for their qualifications at New College. 

Nikki said: “It’s great to be part of an award-winning salon. The training here is amazing.”

Cody added: “I love learning the theory of hair at college then I can put my skills to good use in the salon.”

Two former New College Durham apprentices have secured permanent roles at The Salon. Georgia Medland is currently employed as a senior stylist while Erika Mawson is the assistant salon manager.