AN IRVINE salon has been hailed as the best in the west at a top industry awards ceremony.

Meraki Therapies by Shannen, located in Caledonian House at 100 High Street, was crowned the regional winner for the west of Scotland in the Beauty Salon of the Year category at the Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards 2022.

They claimed the top prize at the award ceremony at the beginning of the month which absolutely blew away the business owner Shannen Leonard-Maxwell.

She thanked everyone "from the bottom of my heart" for their support in helping her to reach this success.

Prior to the ceremony, she said: "Thank you all so much, I still can't believe that I'm a nominee in three categories.

"No matter what happens, I'm beyond thankful for you all, if it wasn't for having clients like you I wouldn't be here today and I wouldn't love every single moment of my job.

"So cheers to you all. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

And while Shannen was thankful for her clientele, a friend of the owner felt that she should be recognised for all of her own endeavours.

Fiona Adamson-Eadie told the Times just how much hard graft Shannen has put into making sure the salon is a success.

She said: "Shannen has worked extremely hard to build her business from the ground up and works tirelessly to provide an amazing service for all her clientele base.

"Shannen has been able to over come so much over the last few years, and has managed to keep her business going - not only through Covid, but also during such trying times such as now, in a cost-of-living crisis when living is simply unaffordable.

"Shannen never lets this affect her professionalism, and makes sure to provide a relaxing, positive experience for clients to ease any worries or stresses they may be going through, which is reflected in the award she has won.

"Myself and her wife, Leanne Leonard-Maxwell, would love to see that recognition reflected within the local community, as she goes above and beyond for everyone she knows and is truly deserving of the praise."

And hundreds who know Shannen and have used the business were quick to offer their congratulations upon hearing of her award success.

One client commented: "Congratulations Shannen, such a wonderful achievement and obviously well deserved."

And another added: "Absolutely buzzing for you - you truly deserve this as you've worked your backside off and you're fantastic at all you do!"

For more on the business, visit facebook.com/serenitybyshannen.