The prestigious event held at Coatbridge High School on Monday 9 February, saw students from colleges across Scotland compete to be crowned best in their category, granting them access to the AHT Finals in Blackpool.

The creative students scooped an impressive ten awards including first place for Face Painting, Body Painting, Gender Transformation and Men’s Commercial Cut.

Hairdressing and Make-up Artistry Lecturer Janet Munn, commented, “All of the students performed to a very high standard and we are very proud of the hard work and enthusiasm displayed by all of them.

“Fitting in the amount of practise time required over and above the students course work has been difficult – there have been a lot of picture messages via email and Facebook sent as well as students coming in outwith timetabled classes.

“There is a lot of excitement, creating a real buzz as we prepare for the National Finals, where the students are more determined than ever to do their college proud.”

Twenty-three year old Saoirse McGreevy from Yoker who jointly won third place for Team Bridal with John McNamee, said, “I came from Belfast to study Make-up Artistry at the college’s Clydebank campus because of the reputation and opportunities available to students. Being able to enter competitions like the AHT has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and push my skills to the next level.

“The competition was tough as you're working under pressure and to a deadline but I thoroughly enjoyed it. There’s a great buzz on the day and I’m delighted to have been placed 3rd in the Team Bridal category. Preparations for Blackpool start now.”

With the regional heat under their belts the students are now preparing themselves for the National Finals in Blackpool on the 16 and 17 March, where they will compete against finalists from the England and Wales qualifying heats.