A HAIRDRESSER is celebrating after winning a top accolade in her company's national awards.

Nicola Wilkinson of Saks, Chester-le-Street, travelled to the Grosvenor House Hotel in London to pick up the Colour Image Award for her photographs of Saks apprentice Kate Richardson.

Joanne Clift was also called up on stage to get recognition for graduating from the highly coveted L'Oreal Colour Specialist Degree. The Saks National Awards are held each year to recognise high-achieving salons and individuals within the network.

Christine Blades, franchisee of the salon at 84 Front Street, said: "I'm really proud of Nicola and Joanne for their fantastic achievements."