A TRAINEE hairdresser is proving she's a cut above the rest after only six months in the job.

Amanda Hogg, 21, of Michael Anthony Hairdressers in Berkeley, recently won a hairdressing competition at Gloucestershire College, Cheltenham, where she is studying for a NVQ Level 2 in hairdressing.

"I did a hair up style for a special occasion or a wedding. Winning means I'll now be in the college team for other competitions against other colleges in the region," said Amanda.

She has only been in training for six months after taking a change of career from dog grooming.

She said: "I wanted to deal with more people and not just have a job to earn money but be able to have a career.

"I like working with my hands and being allowed to be artistic about things."

Despite her short time in the industry, Amanda is already impressing her boss.

Kirsty Smith, manager of Michael Anthony, said: "We're all really proud of her. She has become an inspiration to our other staff."

As part of her training, Amanda works four days at the salon and one day at college, and said she is focused on completing her qualifications at the moment.

She said: "I want to get my level three and then do a barber course.

"It would be nice eventually to own my own salon or a mobile business but I'm happy in the salon for the time being."