HAZEL WOOD is a dab hand with paints - and she has an award to prove it.

She is a partner in Spectacular Events, an entertainments business based in Richmond, North Yorkshire, which has clowns on its book.

And, after a few attempts at helping with the clowns' make-up, Hazel, who has a keen interest in photography and design, decided to take it a step further.

After joining the National Association of Face Painters, she travelled to Cardiff at the weekend for the organisation's annual gathering, intending to do no more than glean a few tips and ideas.

However, she returned home on Monday as the Newcomer of the Year.

"I didn't intend to enter the competitions but I was talked into it," said Hazel. "I decided to try a princess design and came seventh in the painter of the year category. I also tried an unusual leopard in the design of the year class."

Hazel was happy enough with recognition and praise for her work - but was then stunned to learn she had won her award.

"People who finished higher than me had taken time to research and experiment with their work, so I didn't expect to win anything. I hope I can build on this,'' she said