The technical expertise of stylist Nicola Hulatt and colourist Gemma Merton has won their salon a place at the notorious L'Oréal Colour Trophy Grand Final where they will compete for the 2007 title. The girls from Westrow Hairdressing, Wetherby, created a stunning entry with striking catwalk presence and original, precise colour, instantly rocketing them into the final round of the competition.

"We started by scouting for inspiration at London Fashion Week and surfing catwalking.com," explained Nicola of the evolution behind her team's winning look, "We were struck by the smart tailoring associated with the 'boy-meets-girl' trend, particularly high-waisted wide trousers. Inspired by the clothes, we gave our model a boyish crop but retained femininity with autumnal colouring and flowing movement throughout the hair."

Delighted by their success so far, Nicola and Gemma will now begin preparations for the Grand Final, which will take place in May at London's Earls Court 2.

"Everyone was absolutely gobsmacked," says Nicola of the salon's winning moment, "Many of our other salons had come down to support us, so a great roar went up from the crowd as our number was announced. Even standing on stage it was hard to believe.  To have an opportunity to compete at an event as prestigious as the Grand Final is amazing - we feel proud to have made it so far."