BARBERING apprentices who are studying for qualifications have been shortlisted for a prestigious national final.

Six out of eight finalist positions in the City and Guilds Barbering Apprentice of the Year England final have been secured by East Durham College students.

Craig Harman, 23, of Hartlepool, and Jessica Mclaren, 26, of Peterlee, who work in Fellaz Barbershop, Louise Williams, 19, of Shotton Colliery and Jodie Hudson, 32, of Hartlepool, who work in The Barbers Lounge at Seraph Hair and Beauty, Edward Donaldson, 21, of Seaham, works in The Gents Valet and Lisa Stoker, 34, of Peterlee, who works in P and L’s Salon, have all been shortlisted.

The finalists took part in a stage work competition at the final, held at East Durham College’s Peterlee campus yesterday.