HARD work and passion is all it takes to come out on top, according to an award-winning beauty salon owner from Swindon.

Beth James, owner of Forever Hair and Beauty, was amazed to win both Beauty Salon of the Year South West and Most Wanted Salon of the Year South West at The English Hair and Beauty Awards.

She was voted the best among 10 other salons in each category after thousands of nominations were sent in by members of the public.

Beth told the Adver: “Just to be selected as a finalist was a massive achievement for me already so I didn’t go in thinking we wouldn’t win anything.

“When they announced we were Most Wanted Salon of the year I was over the moon. Then to win Beauty Salon of the year I couldn’t believe it because the salon has only been open for two years.

“I didn’t even hear our name that’s how shocked I was.

“We’re a small salon. It’s just me in one room with my clients so that makes it a more personal service and maybe that’s what made it stand out.”

Beth set up her own business at the age of 24 after working at a number of spas. “It was the best thing that ever happened. I just thought ‘let’s try it’,” she said.

“I have an absolute passion for what I do and it’s amazing I can actually do a job that I love. It was the best decision I ever made.

“If you work hard and put everything in, your work doesn’t go unnoticed.

“You’ve just got to work hard and go for it.”

After moving into a new studio at Pure Offices in Kembrey Park in December 2016, Beth’s client base now numbers over 100 and means she is fully booked most weeks.

“My diary was getting more fully booked but it was giving me more opportunities to go on more training,” she said.

“I always like to extend my skills and keep up to date in beauty and I never want to fall behind on anything.”

Beth also thanked her supportive clients and parents, saying: “I would just like to say a massive thank you to my supportive client base. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today, and the support from my family.

“It’s very exciting. Who knows what the future will bring.”