Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

A Gilfach barber has been crowned Barber of the Year at a nationwide hair and beauty competition.  

Martin Hone of MH Barbering was the gold winner of the Barber/Gentleman’s Hairdresser category at the British Hair and Beauty Awards in August 2023 – beating 11 other finalists from across the UK. 

The awards, which are described on their website as “one of the most prestigious online awards for the hair, beauty, nails and spa industry’, recognise those who make a “real difference”. 

MH Barbering owner Martin Hone spoke to Caerphilly Observer about his win and said: “It was a bit of a buzz.”

Though Martin couldn’t attend the awards ceremony in London due to a family illness, he received the award in the post – and it already has pride of place in the barber’s.

“It’s already up,” said Martin, “all the awards are up on the wall.” 

While this is the first time that Martin has won this particular honour, he’s had “loads of achievements” over the years, including Businessman 2023 at the Best of Welsh Hair and Beauty awards.

Martin has a long history in the industry, having started around 40 years ago. 

“I’ve always done hairdressing,” he said, adding that his first experience was in his aunty’s hairdresser’s in Bargoed.

He has since worked in Cardiff, Newport, Caerphilly and London before starting up MH Barbering in Gilfach – which he has now been running for five years. 

Business is good, according to Martin who says that he has “loads of customers” who come “from all over the place”. 

Martin is also involved with the community, handing out presents to children at Christmas and Halloween. 

According to Martin, “meeting people” and “chatting” with them is a big benefit of his job. 

Martin continued: “Making customers happy about themselves when they walk out…that’s the best bit.”

MH Barbering is located at 13 Gwerthoner place, Gilfach, Bargoed.