A SOUTH Cheshire College trio are celebrating after securing the top three places in a prestigious national hair and beauty final.

Kasia Halford and Anna Mekelova finished second and third respectively in the NHF hairdressing competition, while Robyn Goodall scooped third prize in the Avant Garde Make-Up category.

The students fended off the challenge of some of the best student stylists from colleges up and down the country in the showcase event at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

Kasia created an ornate ship hairstyle which was modelled by Stephanie Wilshaw.

The 28-year-old from Barthomley, said: “I really didn’t expect to do this well on the national stage so I’m thrilled with my performance.

“It was the first time I’ve taken part in the competition but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience which gave me the chance to showcase my skills.”

Anna Mekelova was the overall Creative Award winner at the College’s annual hair and beauty competition in January and went on to the regional and national finals as a result.

Anna, 36, of Sandbach, said: “I was pleased and surprised to finish in the top three because my hair style was one of the smallest, but I think they looked at the quality of the style rather than the quantity.

“The competitions have all been a fantastic experience and I feel like I’ve really developed my hairdressing skills on the course.”