STUDENTS from a North-East college were crowned regional champions in a hair and make-up competition for the second year in row after designing an array of striking styles.

Hair and media make-up students from Middlesbrough College wowed judges at the hotly-contested annual Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) Regional Competition recently.

The skilled youngsters made a splash at Gateshead Federation Brewery with their intricate make-up and hairdressing work across a series of categories.

Their efforts earned them the Best College 2017 trophy plaque, and a chance to compete on the national stage next month, at Blackpool Winter Gardens.

Fourteen students representing Middlesbrough College’s expert hair and media make-up department tackled challenging, timed briefs.

Gender transformation, vintage Hollywood and fantasy worlds were among the themes.

Heather Ferguson, level two and three hair and media make-up course leader, said: “This competition is very well contested and the students have done incredibly well to get this recognition, for the second year in a row.

“We’re thrilled to be heading to Blackpool next month to prove our skills on the national stage. The students should be very proud of themselves, as should course staff.”