A BARBER from Winsford who offers customers top hair care and speciality craft ale and lager has been crowned Barber of the Year 2019 in the north west.
The prestigious accolade came as a big surprise for Patron Barber shop as they were nominated by customers.
The Delamere Street barbers joined hundreds of professionals from across the region's beauty sector to receive their gong at the North West Beauty Industry Awards 2019.
Dean Hildrop is named Barber of the Year at the North West Beauty Industry Awards 2019
"This was a shock to us as we hadn't entered any competitions," said owner Dean Hildrop, 29.
Barber Dean Hildrop celebrates the award with, from left barber Charlotte Fletcher and his partner Faye Moore
"We were really surprised. It all started with a phone call telling us we had the highest number of public votes! We were up against massive shops in Manchester and Liverpool and barbers from all over the north west. For tiny little Winsford to win is amazing!"
However, celebrations turned to sadness at the ceremony when staff heard about the sudden death of one of their employees.
"On the night of the final we had the devastating news that our newest team member, Max Cresham sadly passed away," said Dean.
Barber Max Cresham, left, who died on the night of the awards is fondly remembered by everyone at Patron Barber
"Max was a very nice and thoughtful person. He was well liked by a lot of clients from the shop and the future really did look bright for him there.
"Out thoughts and condolences go out to Max's family and friends. I'd like to dedicate this award to him."
Max, 25, from Northwich, died on July 21.
"Max and fellow barber Charlotte Fletcher were always pushing and improving the shop for the good of the team,"said Dean. "It's amazing what you can achieve when surrounded with positive supportive people."
Patron Barber was the first in Winsford to introduce online booking during the week.
Patron Barber was the first in Winsford to introduce online booking
"We offer appointments as we feel this is what we need to provide our guys with high quality hair and male grooming services whilst creating a pleasant and relaxed environment in which our clients can escape."
Winsford born Dean, a former Verdin High School, was determined to become self employed.
"Since finishing a barbery course at college I have just strived to be better in non stop education and researching my craft," he said. "I love the fact that I am in my home town and get to see my friends and build a relationship with clients."
Dean funded his own business and even built the interior of his shop, with help from electricians and plumbers.
Barbers Charlotte Fletcher and Dean Hildrop strive to be the best
Earlier this year, he acquired a drinks licence so that he could offer customers craft ales and lagers, specially bottled for the salon.
"I got in touch with a brewery and got our own logo designed on the bottles," said Dean. "We serve coffee and other refreshments and also source all our own products, including cologne."
Supporting the community is a driving force behind his vision.
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"We are constantly involved and contributing towards numerous charities and local fundraisers," he said. "We helped a local man raise money for a prosthetic leg that isn't provided by the NHS so he can have a better quality of life with his family.
"We are always striving to be better at our craft. We believe in being the best versions of ourselves that we can possibly be."
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