Noel, from Zuni Hair in Botanic Avenue, walked away with the prestigious title at the British Hairdressing Awards.

Stylists from across Northern Ireland went 'head-to-head' to compete for the award, which was presented at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London at a ceremony was hosted by Graham Norton.

This is the second year that Noel has received the esteemed award, having also secured the title in 2006.

And Noel has revealed that he is hoping to win the award for a third time, which will allow him to be entered into the British Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame.

He said: "I am very proud to have received the award for my La Fleur collection.

"British hairdressing is renowned throughout the world for its creativity and innovation and I am delighted to be a part of what is deemed 'the best of British' within the hairdressing industry.

"This award is also a credit to my staff who have supported me throughout and L'Oreal who have given me the opportunity to conduct their seminars and showcase my work."

Editor-in-chief of Hairdressers Journal International, Jayne-Lewis-Orr said: "This year we received hundreds of entries, highlighting the tremendous talent that lies within British hairdressing.

"The British Hairdressing Awards recognise creativity and excellence in hairdressing skills and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Noel on his success this year."