A SPECIALIST beauty therapist from Winsford has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.

Vicki Evans Beauty & Aesthetics is in the final 10 of the Aesthetic Clinic of the year 2019 north west category in the English Hair and Beauty Awards 2019.

"We are so thrilled to be nominated, all the hard work and progression is paying off," said Winsford-born Vicki. "I have been trained to such a high standard by respected professionals in the industry. Little old me from a little town like Winsford is up against massive companies in big cities.

"I take pride in my work and have a fantastic relationship with my clients."

The former St Nicholas Catholic High School pupil studied beauty therapy at university in Birmingham.

After working from home, the 37-year-old opened a salon on Wharton Road five years ago and is already looking for bigger premises.

"I just love it all," said Vicki, who trained in NHS phlebotomy in London. "It's fantastic being able to help so many people.I specialise in more advanced treatments like non surgical nose re-shaping and acne scarring. I am the only one in Winsford doing aesthetics.

"People's confidence improves and it changes their lives completely."

The awards on Sunday, March 10 celebrate the breadth of talent and style of hair and beauty salons.

"We are excited," said Vicki, who employs two members of staff, beauty therapist Emma Archbold and nail practitioner Amy Parry. "Even if we don't win, it's great to get this recognition. I have worked really hard. I've had lots of clients for years and they've become friends."

Vicki is now recruiting more staff as she hopes to move to new premises and open her own training academy.

"I want to train local girls to get them to a standard they should be at," said Vicki. "I want them to give them the confidence to work for themselves and do what I do. I want to show people that if you work hard you can do it."