Benfleet salon is Muddy Stilettos Best Hair Salon in Essex

Lucy Ann, located on High Road, in Benfleet, received the Muddy Stilettos Award for Best Hair Salon in Essex for 2026 as part of the lifestyle platform’s annual awards.

Readers of the website had their say and the hair salon came out on top, as nearly half a million votes were cast nationwide across 21 categories.

Owner Lucy Floyd said the win was a “milestone” for the young salon, and thanked their clients for continuing to support them as they have grown.

She said: "We are absolutely over the moon.

"We only opened two and a half years ago and we have always tried to have a community feel and the approach that everyone is welcome.

"We've put ourselves out there and with all the other wonderful salons in the area, to have actual people voting for us, we couldn't be happier."

Salon - Lucy Ann has been named the county's best. (Image: Lucy Ann)

Lucy Ann offers a full range of hairdressing services, including cutting, colouring, extensions, treatments, and styling for special occasions.

The team said they aim to create a relaxed and welcoming salon environment and has focused on building a strong connection with the local community.

The salon said it combines the latest industry techniques with a focus on client experience, and Lucy shared her gratitude to the salon's customers.

Lucy added: "We would like to thank all of our wonderful clients for their continued support and trust.

"This award is a milestone we are incredibly proud of, and we look forward to continuing to grow."

The Muddy Stilettos Awards, now in their 13th year, celebrate the best lifestyle businesses across the UK.

This year, the 21 top independent businesses in the Essex were awarded in categories ranging from pubs and restaurants to florists and theatres.

The Lucy Ann team said it looks forward to building on the win and continuing to deliver high-quality hairdressing in the years ahead.