TWO Newport hairdressers are competing for the title of Wales and South West Hairdresser of the Year in a prestigious competition.

Stuart Nicholson, 46, of Malpas, and David Coltherd, 39, of Bettws, own Burlesque Hair Company Ltd which has salons in Newport, Caerleon and Usk.

The duo are among six finalist teams in the Wales and South West category of the Hairdressing Journal International’s British Hairdressing Awards, which are renowned internationally as the ‘Oscars’ of the hairdressing world.

Mr Nicholson and Mr Coltherd, who have worked together for 23 years, entered eight photos of their work which secured their place in the final.

The images will now be judged by industry experts and the pair will find out if they have won at a glittering awards ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on November 26.

The pair reached the final of the competition back in 2009 and also represented the UK in Las Vegas in the Goldwell Trendzoom colour competition.

They also worked at London Fashion Week in 2010.

Mr Coltherd said: “A lot of work has gone into this and it’s very rewarding. This is the awards to be in and it’s great to have recognition.”