Award-winning Norton barber backflips onto stage after leaving retail job six years ago

Bobby Evans receiving the award alongside friends Tess Tickle and Emma Royd
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A barber who took the plunge six years ago leaving his retail job to pursue his passions backflipped onto the stage after winning a prestigious industry award.

Bobby Evans, who is a barber based at Luxe Hair & Beauty Norton, put his gymnastics and dance background to good use when he was named 'Barber of the Year 2024' at the North East Hair & Beauty Awards last weekend. The 31-year-old was thrilled to receive the award and even did a backflip to the delight of award show guests.

The Teessider who has been barbering for six years, has been self-employed for over two years and one day dreams of opening his own shop. The Norton resident is known in the industry for helping children with complex needs who struggle to get their hair cut but also offers traditional cuts.

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He said: "I do a lot of work with autistic children as I'll lay on the floor with them or sit on the floor with them. I had a post that went viral where a little boy with autism sat on my knee on the reception desk while I cut his hair.

"Barbering was something I always wanted to do. I met my partner and just quit my job and went and trained. I've worked in salons since.

"It was a shock winning the award but I thought I had a good chance because all my clients were asking about it and I know they all voted."

Bobby and his husband Mike
Bobby and his husband Mike

During the award ceremony, Bobby was joined on stage by event hosts and friends, drag queens Tess Tickle and Emma Royd. He said: "They just happen to be two of my best friends, so that made the moment even more special."

Bobby, who got married to his husband Mike three weeks ago, runs RM Barbering. Clients can book appointments through his booking system here.

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