A MUM is delighted after being named Midlands Hair Stylist of the Year.

Joanne Turner, a freelance hair stylist, was nominated by one of her clients for the hair stylist category of the Midlands Beauty Industry Awards.

Miss Turner was shortlisted out of 10 finalists – however, she was the only freelance worker in that category.

Miss Turner, aged 33 said: “I’m completely shocked to have been chosen from the incredibly strong shortlist of finalists. I didn’t think I would win. I was over the moon just to get through to the final 10.

“This is my first award I’ve ever won on my own solo.

“I’m so grateful to my loyal client base who have supported me so much and I am delighted have achieved this recognition so soon after starting my new venture.

“This gives my inspiration to do so much more and I’m very excited about the future.”

Following the birth of her first son, Joshua, she decided to start her own business in 2017 to ensure she could achieve a work life balance for the benefit of her son.

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Since embarking on her venture, she has made strong partnerships with wedding venues in Worcestershire, in addition to creating a salon experience at her home in Drakes Broughton.

Miss Turner was born in Worcester and studied at Heart of Worcestershire College, in Deansway, where she received her level two and level three qualification in hair styling.

She said: “I didn’t want to return to full time employment after having my son. It was actually my clients who suggested I did freelance.

“I was prepared to become a teaching assistant so I could spend more time with my son, but my clients inspired me to go freelance.”

Miss Turner said she loves her job and has been in the industry for over 15 years.

She added: “I think it’s all about the clients, listening to them and giving them what they want. It’s all about being creative and making people happy.

“I have learnt a lot on the job. It didn’t come naturally to me learning this. I was diagnosed with dyslexia as an adult. I have had to work hard for it.”

She received her award at a glitzy ceremony at The Holiday Inn in Birmingham on Sunday, October 20.