A SALON owner has reached the finals of a national hairdressing competition.

Katy Grimshaw, 27 from Haslingden has fought off stiff nationwide competition for her chance to be on the The It List, which recognises the best new emerging talent in UK hairdressing among those aged 30 and under.

The It List Awards, which consist of six categories, is judged by hair, fashion and business icons from across the UK and celebrates up and coming professionals making a name for themselves.

Ms Grimshaw’s place in the final is a reflection of the work she put into converting her high street salon, Spectrum One, in Deardengate from a derelict 20th century building to a thriving feature of the town.

The eight month restoration process, which involved restoring the original features of the building and drilling into each individual brick to treat for dry rot, was a family project, which saw her father take on the role of project manager, while her sister handled the design aspect.

Ms Grimshaw, who has worked in the industry from the age of 13, is one of five finalists from across the UK in The Entrepreneur category, which recognises young salon owners who have created exciting and successful businesses.

Ms Grimshaw said: “I am so pleased to have made the shortlist for such a prestigious industry award.

“Spectrum One has been in business less than two years so to be recognised so early on in our journey is a huge accolade in itself.”

Ms Grimshaw is no stranger to accolades, having won the regionals Schwarzkopf Awards for Men’s Styling in 2009 as well as having her work featured in the 2013 boohoo.com advertising campaign, but this is the first time she has been recognised for her work with salon.

She said: “When I started the Spectrum One project it wasn’t just about being short listed, it was about bringing new awareness and footfall to my hometown, Haslingden.

“By being short listed for this it is fantastic to know the spotlight is on our town.”

The It List grand finale will take place on 4 September at the Guild Hall London and will be hosted by comedian Katherine Ryan.