Ferryhill’s MayHem Hair in Echo’s best hairdresser competition

Wayne Bowes, the owner of MayHem hair in Ferryhill, has been named as one of the ten finalists in the 2026 competition.

The 40-year-old opened the doors to MayHem Hair last July, marking not only a new business venture but 25 years in the hair industry and his 40th birthday.

Wayne Bowes, owner of Mayhem Hair in Ferryhill has been nominated in the final top ten of The Northern Echo best hairdresser awards for 2026. (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

Less than a year later, the recognition has come as a shock.

Wayne said: “I was quite surprised as we haven’t even been open a year I definitely didn’t expect it so soon and now we are just getting bigger and better and apart from the odd day or week we have been completely fully booked since the day we opened.

“I have just been completely blown away by the support from everyone.”

Wayne Bowes, owner of Mayhem Hair in Ferryhill has been nominated in the final top ten of The Northern Echo best hairdresser awards for 2026. (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

Wayne began his career at just 13 as a Saturday boy and hasn’t looked back. Although hairdressing was not part of his original plan and he once wanted to pursue art and design, the salon floor quickly became home.

Over the years he has worked in award-winning salons across the North East, picking up accolades for both himself and now his own business.

As chief stylist, Bowes specialises in colour, from balayage to vivid transformations, and also offers hair extensions.

Since opening, the salon has expanded to include another stylist and a junior stylist and employs two self-employed beauticians.

Wayne Bowes, owner of Mayhem Hair in Ferryhill has been nominated in the final top ten of The Northern Echo best hairdresser awards for 2026. (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

The salon operates Monday to Saturday, but Bowes also opens on selected Sundays to accommodate clients who prefer a quieter setting due to medical needs or anxiety.

The name MayHem also carries personal meaning, Wayne said: “I was originally married and my life was mayhem for a while and still is. I thought when trying to come up with a name and thought this name was perfect and quirky, a bit different.

“It represents me and who I am, I work best under pressure and love being busy – it is what helps me thrive.”

The full list of nominees to be crowned best hairdresser can be found here.

To vote, you simply need to cut out a coupon printed in The Northern Echo this week and next.

You have until Wednesday, March 4, to vote for your favourite and return it to: The Northern Echo Best Hairdresser 2026, Local iQ House, 1 Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5NP, before March 4.

Votes will be counted shortly after voting closes.

In the meantime, we’ll be highlighting one of the salons in our top ten each day to help you decide which one to vote for.