A barber from Dinas Powys has been recognised for the professional quality of his work

Sean ‘Swiss’ Sweeney, from Sweeney’s Barbershop, feels “honoured” to have been awarded the title of Master Craftsman by the British Hair Council earlier this month.

The Master Craftsman Diploma is a professional accreditation which recognises exceptional standards of hairdressing in the industry.

Mr Sweeney began his career at the age of 13 when he got a job as a hair sweeper.

He became a fully qualified barber at the age of 16.

The barber of 20 years has since gained a series of prestigious titles, including the Grand Master Barber Award which he won last September.

The award celebrates those who are influential to the industry.

In 2017, Mr Sweeney was employed by the education service, the Great British Barbering Academy (GBBA), after performing on stage at a barber trade show.

Mr Sweeney is previous Welsh champion of Britain’s Best Wet Shave, winning in 2015 and again in 2016.

In February, Mr Sweeney will be competing to reclaim his title at the regional heat in North London.

Contestants will be judged on multiple criteria, including shave preparation, razar technique and their adherence to professional and aesthetic standards.