A Bristol hairdressing student has proved she is a cut above by beating hundreds of other hopefuls in a national competition.

Kate McLellan, who is learning her trade at City of Bristol College, has been named Student of the Year 2009 by the Hairdressing Council.

Her prize includes shadowing award-winning hairdresser Andrew Barton, a photo shoot with L'Oréal and City & Guilds and afternoon tea in the House of Commons.

Kate, 18, from Pill, who is studying for an NVQ level 3 in hairdressing, said: "I've been working hard all year and put a lot of effort and time into doing my model's hair and it all paid off. I'm excited about a career in hairdressing and would eventually love to have my own chain of salons."

The Hairdressing Council runs the Student of the Year competition with L'Oréal Professionel and City & Guilds.