What’s the history of your business and what does it do?

“The Hair Hub is my first salon and my first business, only opening the doors to my salon on April 1, 2017.

“The Hair Hub is a hairdressing salon offering a wide range of experienced and high quality services to both men and women within a professional and relaxed atmosphere.”

What inspired you to start it?

“Having my own salon within the centre of Sidmouth town has always been a dream of mine.

“Having worked within the hairdressing industry for 17 years it felt the right time to open my own salon and start my new venture.”

Where do you see your business in five years time?

“I would like to see my business grow further to enable me to have more staff and continue to offer fantastic services and fulfil the needs of my continually growing custom.”

How did it feel to win your award?

“I was completely overwhelmed to have received my sole trade business of the year award, I cannot express how pleased and happy I felt.

“I really did not think it would be possible in such a short amount of time, I could not have wished for a better start to my small business and I really still cannot believe I won.”

What advice do you have for anyone thinking of starting their own business in Sidmouth?

“My advice would be to anyone starting there own business is to make sure its something you love and have a real passion for, making sure you offer and carry out your services in a professional, friendly, kind and approachable manner.

“You need to put your heart and sole into your business knowing it will be hard work but thoroughly rewarding.”

Is there anyone you’d like to thank?

“The Hair Hub officially opened on the April 1, 2017 having received the keys to the premises on the March 18, 2017 which gave me two weeks to refurbish it and create the salon you see today.

“This has been one of the hardest but most rewarding things I have ever done.

“Within the two weeks we had a lot of work ahead of us resulting in a lot of blood, sweat and tears and possibly the odd cross word, but we had done it.

“I could not have done any of it without the help and support from all my family and friends who helped make this possible and believed in me.

“I would also like to thank the Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce for the award and the great evening they hosted at the Victoria hotel, and to all those who voted for me and the continual support from all and client business.”

The judges said: “Lucy has quite recently opened her independent hairdressers in Old Fore Street, and it has been instantly successful.

“She brings experience and knowledge to her craft, but most of all she brings enthusiasm, commitment and good humour. “A model for anyone in how to learn your trade, hone your skills and adopt a friendly, welcoming and professional approach.”