THESE weird and wonderful creations are just a sample of the hairstyles dreamed up by student hairdressers from across York.

York College's annual Hair & Beauty competition is one of the city's best-loved hairdressing events for college students aspiring to break into the industry.

There were about 250 full and part-time hair and beauty therapists taking part in this year's extravaganza last night.

The competition included the following categories: Catwalk make-up, face painting, nail art, ladies' evening style, commercial day style, ladies' high fashion and the total look team event.

Denise Morrison, curriculum leader for hair and beauty at York College, said: "The competition provides an excellent opportunity for learners to prove themselves to employers that they can use their skills effectively while under pressure.

"During training at college and in the workplace, learners build up both technical and creative skills which are showcased in this competition.

"Each year, they produce work of a very high standard and everyone involved should be congratulated."

The winning students go forward to a regional heat in Gateshead in February and the winners of the regional heat will get the chance to compete in the national finals in Blackpool in March.