A BOLTON hairdresser proved he was a cut above when he scooped this year’s Start-Up Business of the Year Award.

Ambitious businessman Dharmendra Patel, known as Noggi, who runs his own salon in Bank Street, said he was “gobsmacked”.

He added: “I wasn’t expecting it at all. It is my first time at the awards, I can’t believe it, I’m stuck for words for once.

“I put it all down to my superb staff. They are all brilliant.”

Mr Patel is already making bold plans to enhance his business — less than a year after its launch.

His busy Noggi’s Hairdressing shop will be offering a male “saloon” in addition to the existing salon.

With the international trapping and atmosphere of a sports bar, allied to an extension in its male grooming services, Noggi’s is certainly assured of a bright future.

He added: “It’s imminent, it’s happening. We’ll be up and running next month.”

The gents and ladies hairdressing salon opened last June and occupies three floors, with the main salon located at ground level.

Mr Patel, aged 41, started his career in hairdressing at the age of 17 and worked in several Bolton salons for more than 22 years.

With support from regular customers, and one local businessman in particular, he secured and opened his own premises.

Every client receives a hot drink and biscuits and Noggi’s also provides daily papers and music.

Looking to the future, Mr Patel plans to create a “men’s saloon”. This will feature a TV showing Sky Sports, sports magazines, as well as sports drinks for sale.

New grooming services planned include shaving, facials, massages and manicures. A beauty spa area is also being created elsewhere in the building.