A HAIRSTYLIST from Halesowen has proved a cut above the rest by winning one of the industry's highest accolades.

Helen Tether has truly made the grade by winning the UK Bronze award in the Creative Vision Category at the Wella Professionals TrendVision Awards UK and Ireland Final.

The final, in London, was hosted by Big Brother presenter Emma Willis and highlights included a glitzy drinks reception and formal dinner, as well as some incredible hair shows.

Helen, who runs the Helen Tether Award Winning Hair salon on Gorsty Hill, had already trimmed the competition by coming through regional heats against hundreds of rivals.

And the model (pictured) she presented to the judges secured a bronze award at the national finals.

There was a touch of extra gloss to the prize too - it means Helen will join the Wella Professionals TrendVision mentoring day learning from industry greats Leonardo Rizzo and Charlie Taylor.

Helen said: “It was such an honour to be named as a finalist for this prestigious industry award but when I was announced as the Bronze winner I was blown away.

"The competition was so much fun and the process was one that I loved so to have enjoyed myself so much and receive such an incredible accolade at the end was simply incredible.

"The next step for me is the Wella Trend Vision mentoring day learning from industry experts so I am really excited for that.”