A HAIDRESSER from Preston is a snip away from the big league and has organised a charity fund-raiser to celebrate.

New Longton hairdresser Douglas McMahon is aiming to be a cut above the rest in this year's regional heat of the North West Hairdresser of the Year show at the Grosvenor House, London.

Douglas, who owns newly opened Eminence, in Hugh Barn Lane, New Longton, will attend the competition with his assistant John Hughes who will be entering the contest at junior level.

Both will be competing against some of the country's best hair stylists with a chance of winning a place in the grand final later this year and follow in the footsteps of top hair stylists like Nicky Clarke.

But before embarking on the top competition the charity champs are organising a big fashion show on the theme of James Bond and Miss Moneypenny.

The stylish event will take place at a top venue in Preston and all proceeds will go to a local good cause.

And the lads require a handful of budding models willing to have their hair suitably styled and prepared to show off a range of designer clothes -- some created by John, who also has qualifications in fashion.

Douglas, who has worked in top London salons for six years, said: "Ideally we are looking for fun people aged 18 to 26 who are basically up for anything.

"Although the venue has not been organised at the moment it will take place at one of the big hotels in Preston.

"As far as the competition goes we are both really looking forward to it.

"I'll be competing against some tough people including Pat Woods of the Saks chain.

"I've already won two competitions for the North West and have a good chance of winning this."

People interested in modelling for the fashion show should send a recent photograph with their name, address and daytime telephone number to Douglas McMahon, Eminence, 1 Hugh Barn Lane, New Longton, Preston.