STAFF at JJ’s Hair Group are celebrating their boss scooping sixth place in the regional semi-finals of a prestigious hairdressing competition.

Jane Jennings and her team travelled to Bristol on Monday where they watched in excitement as she competed against 29 other hairdressers from the South West in the L’Oréal colour trophy competition.

The 56-year-old from Old Town had 30 minutes to work her magic on model Emily Hicks’ hair in front of judges and her opponents, before the teenager from Royal Wootton Bassett strut down the catwalk to show off the sleek, rose gold look.

Jane, who set up JJ’s when she was 23, spent months prepping, conditioning and cutting Emily’s hair to get the right look ahead of the competition. And the hard work paid off as the judges were impressed and awarded her sixth place.

“I found it all very exciting and can't wait to do it all again next year,” Jane said.

This is the third time Jane has made the regional semi-finals and she was joined by her team who watched from the side-line cheering her on to give moral support. Antony Salter, a beautician at JJ’s, did Emily’s makeup while fellow hair stylist Francesca Serratore helped perfect the look too.

JJ’s Academy manager Carly Embling said: “We all had a fabulous day in Bristol and enjoyed cheering our boss on. The work created was of such a high standard and really inspired our team.

“Jane wasn't at all nervous but really enjoyed every minute of it. Unfortunately the judges do not give any feedback on each entry but, even though she didn't secure a final position, we know that to come sixth out of 30 places is a real achievement.

“The judging went on for quite some time so we are aware that they had a tough decision to make.

"Jane continues to inspire her team with her enthusiasm and passion for hairdressing and is already putting together a creative team for next year’s entry.”

Jane added: “I feel quite proud I made the semi-finals. I’m 56 but I’m still quite an ambitious person.

“I’ve got some amazing staff and talented girls and guys working for me and strive to keep improving everything we do at JJS. It is lovely if I can inspire other people to have a go.”