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GILLIAN IS SIMPLY A CUT ABOVE!

STYLE QUEEN Gillian Ironside is helping put Stranraer Campus of Dumfries and Galloway College firmly on the map with her award-winning hair designs.

Having secured third place at the Scottish heats of the Association of Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy Competition, Gillian, a second-year student at Stranraer, travelled to Birmingham to compete in the national final on Monday.

And, despite stiff competition from all over the country and from many larger colleges Gillian scooped a magnificent third prize.

Her thrilled tutor Margaret Lock explained:

"The competition took place at the Spring Salon Event, held at the National Exhibition Centre.

"Competition was tough and we found ourselves up against both larger colleges and private training agencies throughout the UK.

"Gillian had to complete a cut and blow-dry on stage within 45 minutes. There were 30 other competitors not to mention the 500-plus who were in the audience!

"Her model, Celeste Papier, is also a student at the Stranraer Campus, and allowed Gillian a free-hand with both colour and styling.

"Gillian although very nervous created a fashionable texturized look which was complemented by her choice of colours."

And her hard work paid off when she gained third place quite an achievement considering the size of the Stranraer Campus. She was awarded prize money, a certificate and a medal.

Tutor Margaret was delighted with the outcome particularly as Gillian was competing against third-year students.

"This is a fantastic result for our small campus," she said. "It is rewarding to watch a student who has worked hard and is fully committed to her studies to achieve such a result at national level."

Margaret added that she will soon be interviewing applicants for next years full time courses. If you are keen to enter the hairdressing profession and want to be a winner too she would love to hear from you on (01776) 706633. Or drop in to see her at the Stranraer Campus in the town's Lewis Street.