A professional hairstylist based in Astley Bridge has been named England's best colour technician in the Hair and Beauty Awards 2020.

The results of these prestigious awards, which seek to recognise the crème de la crème of the industry, were announced back in March.

However, due to lockdown, Wesley has only recently been able to celebrate his achievement.

The proud Boltonian has hairdressing in his blood, with a long list of family members who have gone into the industry before him.

As soon as he left school, he joined Bolton College where he obtained his NVQ 1 and 2 qualifications, as well as Level 3 Diploma in hairdressing and barbering.

In 2014, he qualified as the youngest assessor in the North West and with fifteen years of experience under his belt his incredible colouring skills have been acknowledged on a national scale.

Wesley has spent the last three years of his career working at family-owned Platinum Hair Studio in Astley Bridge.

During this time, he has honed his technique using the Mydentity Colour line created by internet sensation and renowned hair guru, Guy Tang.

Having admired Guy Tang’s work for years, Wesley is currently in discussions with Guy about potentially becoming an ambassador of the brand.

Wesley said: "It's hard for me to express just how happy and grateful I am to be named Colour Technician of the Year.

"When I first started my training at Bolton College, I would have never dreamt that fifteen years later I would be receiving this accolade, even less so be in with a chance of working with Guy Tang.

"It just shows that hard work pays off , all in all, not bad for a Bolton lad."

Manager of Platinum Hair Studio, Janet Hunter, added: "Everyone at Platinum Hair Studio is so thrilled for Wesley and what he has achieved in receiving this award.

"We pride ourselves on our quality and service, but Wesley always goes above and beyond.

"He lives and breathes colour, loves a challenge and amazes the rest of the team every day with his creations. Wesley knows no restrictions with his work, in that way, he is a natural artist."