Ward’s in Ferryhill may have only been open a little over a year – but for many locals, owner Lori Ward is already part of the furniture on the village’s high street.
The 35-year-old barber, who has been cutting hair in Ferryhill for most of her career, has seen her shop nominated for The Northern Echo’s Best Barber Shop 2026 award – and says she “didn’t believe it” when she heard.
Ferryhill born and bred
Lori is Ferryhill born and bred, and opened Ward’s after nearly two decades working in the village as a barber.
“I have been open for just over a year, but I have always worked in the village,” she said. “I am Ferryhill born and bred.”
Launching her own business felt like a leap of faith in a crowded market.
“It has been amazing. I didn't think it would work out when I opened the shop up. There are so many barbers so I didn't know if people would come here.”
But word of mouth quickly spread, helped by years of loyal customers who knew her from previous chairs.
“A lot of people have supported me because I am local and people have followed me throughout my years as a barber,” she said.
Simple, walk‑in and on your terms
Ward’s is deliberately stripped back and straightforward – a walk‑in barber shop designed around how Lori’s customers actually live and work.
“I have kept the shop nice and simple for people and it is a walk in barber shop,” she explained.
“A lot of my customers prefer to come in on a whim so I wanted to make things a bit different.”
The set‑up suits Ferryhill’s mix of regulars, people popping in from work, and families juggling school runs and shifts. There’s no need to book weeks ahead – just turn up when you need a trim.
Behind the simplicity sits 18 years of experience in the trade. Lori has built her reputation one cut at a time, watching children grow up in the chair and seeing styles come and go.
A first award – and hopes for Ferryhill
Despite that long track record, Ward’s nomination for The Northern Echo’s Best Barber Shop award is the first time Lori’s own shop has been put in the spotlight.
“I have not been nominated for any award before with my shop, I didn't believe it when I was told that I had been put up for this one,” she said.
For her, the recognition is as much about Ferryhill as it is about Ward’s.
“We already have the best hairdresser award in Ferryhill, so it would be great for the town. It would put Ferryhill on the map to have the best hairdressers and barbers.
“I think I would cry if I won!”
‘It means the world to me’
Lori is quick to credit the people who helped get Ward’s to where it is today – the customers who chose to follow her to the new shop and those who have tried it for the first time in the past year.
“I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone for getting me to where my shop is,” she said. “It means the world to me.”
As The Northern Echo’s search for the Best Barber Shop 2026 continues, Ward’s in Ferryhill is one of the places in the running – and Lori knows every vote cast is a show of support for local businesses like hers.
Readers can vote for their favourite barber shop by cutting out the coupon printed in The Northern Echo and posting it to The Northern Echo Best Barber Shop 2026, LOCALiQ House, 1 Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5NP.
Voting closes on Wednesday, July 8.
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The Northern Echo editor Gavin Foster said: “We have some fantastic barber shops across our region, so it is only right that we give them their time to shine.
“We are delighted to be launching our search for the best barber shop this year - and we want you to help us crown the best of the best across our region.
“This competition is all about celebrating these independent businesses and giving readers the chance to support the places they love. Get your votes in now!”
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