LISA Shepherd has proved she is top of the crops by carrying off the British Hairdresser of the Year 2005 title.

The Kidderminster-based businesswoman made it a personal double by also being named British colourist of the year in the awards ceremony, held in London on Monday.

She said: "It was amazing just to be nominated for this award but to actually win is something else completely. This being my first nomination, I really didn't think I would win it this year.

"It has always been one of my biggest ambitions to win British Hairdresser of the Year so it's a dream come true."

She followed in some famous footsteps, as previous holders of the title include Trevor Sorbie, John Frieda and Nicky Clarke.

Her Lisa Shepherd Midlands Hairdresser salon notched up a hat-trick on the night, as Tim Scott-Wright took the Midlands Hairdresser of the Year accolade.

Leading beauty and fashion editors in national and consumer press, as well as industry experts, nominated contenders, who submitted photographs representing their ideas, creativity and technical expertise.

The awards event - being held for the 21st year - was hosted by television personality, Jonathan Ross, while chart-topping girl group, the Sugababes, performed before the winners were announced.