An Ilkley barber has made it to the regional final of a prestigious live hairdressing competition.

Amy Thompson, who works at Blacks Hair Salon and Barbershop, Crescent Court, Ilkley, is among the regional line-up of the L’Oreal Men’s Image Award.

She said: “I always push myself to keep at the top of my game for my clients. This award is an exciting opportunity to showcase this.”

The regional finals take place throughout next month.

Hundreds of photographs from across the country were judged by the hairdressing industry’s most iconic names, including Sally Brooks, Charles Worthington, Ken Picton and Chris Williams.

The next stage of the competition will put the barbers through their paces. Competitors must create a live model look and demonstrate an awareness for autumn/winter 2014/15 trends in just 30 minutes as outlined in the brief, the model look must be original, modern and inspirational, the total package.

The overall winners of the L’Oreal Professional Colour Trophy will pick up a prize package which includes a photoshoot in London to showcase their winning look.

They will also receive a day’s training with an experienced session stylist, a fashion shoot with Elle magazine, lunch with their hairdressing idol, a comprehensive and personalised plan to promote their salon plus publicity opportunities throughout the year.