By Matthew Legg Business editor

Last updated 13:47, Monday, 22 September 2008

The remarkable rise of a Carlisle hairdressing business has been capped by a top prize at the UK’s most prestigious industry awards.

Jason and Elizabeth Brierley, of Hair@Jibe, which has been named Retail Salon of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards

Hair@Jibe has been named Retail Salon of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards.

The London Road salon took on the biggest names in the industry to win the accolade, which recognises the commercial success and business acumen of owners Jason and Liz Brierley.

The team picked up the award from BBC presenter Nicky Campbell at a ceremony at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Jason said: “First of all I’d like to thank our customers for their support over the years, we couldn’t have got here without them.

“I also want to thank my fantastic team of staff, it is their professionalism and great advice on style and care that has won us this award.

“At Hair@Jibe we feel there should be a real push on staff training to give the customer a great experience and advice throughout their appointment, from the wash right up until they leave us.

“This is how we believe Hair @ Jibe is different – we emphasise customer service.

“We don’t push sales but advise clients on the best products for their individual needs. We’re all absolutely over the moon to have won the award. It was a bit of a blur but the entire team was there and we had an absolutely fantastic evening.”

The British Hairdressing Business Awards, sponsored by TIGI, are run by industry bible Hairdressers Journal International.

Publisher/editor-in-chief Jayne Lewis-Orr said: “Entries were alive with innovation, enthusiasm and entrepreneurial expertise.

“To be chosen as a winner at the British Hairdressing Business Awards is a tremendous testimony to Hair@Jibe’s business acumen.”