A HAIRDRESSING apprentice from York has won the annual UK National Trainee Hairdresser Competition, held by The Association of Hairdressers & Therapists (AHT).

Abi Theaker, 19, a second-year apprentice at Bang Hair, in Low Petergate, came first in the Ladies Commercial Style category, which is based on current trends.

The win follows previous successes at a York College competition in February, which took her through to the regional finals in Gateshead, which she won to gain her a place at the national finals, which took place at Blackpool Winter Gardens.

Abi competed against the 20 strongest trainee hairdressers in the country to complete her look in 30 minutes on model Charlotte McGrogan in front of an audience of more than 800 people.

Abi also competed at the national finals last year in the first-year blow dry category.

Abi said: “It was such a nerve-racking experience, but so worth it. I can’t believe I won.”

She now intends to enter the Young Colourist Award in the L’Oréal Colour Trophy.