Two Blackwood students have scooped top prizes at a national hairdressing competition.
Coleg Gwent students Angie Reynolds, 17, and 18-year-old Becki Jenkins had success at the national finals of the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) competition in Blackpool.
Angie Reynolds took first place in the nail art category of the UK-wide competition and was shocked at her win.
The 17-year-old, who is doing level 2 beauty therapy at the college’s Crosskeys campus, said: “It still hasn’t really sunk in that I won.
“I was pretty nervous before the competition but more so when I came out and saw the work of the other competitors and the standard I was up against. I really couldn’t believe it when I was announced the winner.”
Also sweeping the board was Becki Jenkins.
Her animal print design won her third place in the face painting competition, which had a nature theme.
She said: “The competition was really nerve-racking, especially as I was positioned right in front of the spectators, but it was worth it.
“There was a point before the competition that I was having second thoughts about taking part but my tutor Maria was really supportive and encouraged me to have a go – I’m so glad I did.”