JUST a few years ago, Jahmene Douglas was stacking shelves in the north Swindon branch of Asda.

We all know what happened to him after he applied to go on a top TV talent competition.

Stacey Johnson was a shelf-stacker at the same store at the same time as Jahmene, and she similarly had ideas to better herself.

Stacey proved she too has the X factor – unlike Jahmene not in singing, but in hairdressing.

While the mother-of-two from Stratton was perfectly happy working at the supermarket – and is indeed quick to praise Asda for its support – she felt there was more to life than arranging tins on shelves and, having had her two youngsters, decided on the ambitious but risky business of self-employment, and a career as a hairdresser.

She gained the necessary qualifications and set up her own company, Updoo.

And her talent and some helpful word-of-mouth have boosted her business significantly – so much so that she was asked by EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks to style her hair for the British Soap awards.

There is a message here for anyone who wants to better themselves, to pursue their dreams and establish a good life for themselves and their families.

Stacey had the courage to give it a go, but also has enough common sense to understand that there is going to be more to her business than glamorous commissions.

We wish her all the luck for the future.