TEENAGE apprentices Gemma Carrick and Stephanie Ball are proving they can cut it in the world of hairdressing.

The pair work at Giggi's Hair and Beauty Salon, in Durham City, under the tutelage of hairdresser Giggi Campoli.

Stephanie, 17, from Ferryhill, started her Modern Apprenticeship less than two months ago but is already being allowed to blow-dry hair in the salon.

Gemma, 19, of Brandon, completed her apprenticeship in hairdressing and is working towards the advanced apprenticeship.

Both girls are undertaking their apprenticeships with the Durham Business Club.

Apprenticeships are funded by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) County Durham, which has been tasked with helping the Government achieve its target of having a quarter of all young people aged between 16 and 21 entering apprenticeships before the end of the year.

Stephanie said: "At the first salon I worked at all I did was sweep the floor, but by working at Giggi's and doing the apprenticeship I am progressing much faster and it won't be long before I am cutting hair."

Austin McNamara, executive director of LSC County Durham, said: "Like Stephanie and Gemma, more and more young people are now opting for apprenticeships when they leave school."

For details on Modern Apprenticeships call 08000 150 600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk