Hairdresser wins national 'Best in Blondes' award from Atherton salon

After going through a tough time while learning her trade in local salons, Miah Flanagan said that there were things she "wanted to do differently" and so took the leap to launch her own business early last year.

At just 19, Miah decided to rent space out of the Infalliable Aesthetics salon, on Market Street in Atherton, and after building her 'Miah Flanagan Hair' brand since last February, it is something she hasn't looked back on.

READ > The Lottery Winners on track to bring Number One album to Leigh after midweek charts

An example of Miah's hair colouring (Image: Miah Flanagan)

Growing a loyal client base from the salon, the business owner has also been taking on training courses to teach other budding hairdressers and apprentices.

After being put forward for a nomination in the UK Hair & Beauty Awards in Birmingham last month, Miah was judged to be best in the country in the 'Best in Blondes' category, winning both in the North West and the entire UK.

Celebrating the Hair and Beauty Award win in Birmingham (Image: Miah Flanagan)

Miah, from Hindley, said: "I think I cried all night after winning the award, I just couldn't believe it.

"It was really nice to have my mum and dad there too, because I had a bit of a rocky road at the start of my training, which affected my mental health.

"So to come out of that and have them around me for that experience was amazing."

Miah with her apprentice Annalea at the ceremony (Image: Miah Flanagan)

Speaking highly of her "amazing" apprentice Annalea, who also came in the Top 10 Apprentices in the awards ceremony, Miah said that she hopes to continue building her brand and clients from the Atherton salon, while also passing on her knowledge and experience to the next generation of hairdressers.