WIGAN & Leigh College student and apprentice hairdresser, Chris Priest has come second in the UK Hairdressing Student of the Year Competition.

This world famous event was sponsored by Goldwell with over 500 students entering the competition.

Chris, from Leigh, beat off stiff competition competing against students from all across the UK to reach the last eight. He had to show off his skills live on stage on Europes biggest hair show at the Excel Centre in London.

Three years ago Chris started College on a sports course and decided that it wasnt for him. His inspiration for hairdressing started by watching TV programme "The Salon" and then set out to find a salon where he could build on his dream.

He attended the new salon in Parsons Walk each week to build on the skills that he would use within his employment at Contrast Hair design in Leigh. That obviously paid off and his portfolio was submitted to the judges of the event to show that his skills and abilities were first class.

Chris said: "I am really pleased to have won second place. I have learned many skills while attending the College and it also gave me the confidence to enter the competition. Just being part of this national event was a really good experience."

College Assessor, Carol Ballard said: "This is great news for both Chris and the College. It just shows what can be achieved if you put your mind to it. We wish Chris every success for the future."