See pictures from annual hair and beauty competition at Suffolk New College

The creative talents of future stylists and make-up artists were showcased on the catwalk, with one model transformed into both Belle and the Beast in a Disney-inspired look.

An audience of 150 family and friends filled the atrium at Suffolk New College in Ipswich for the annual hair and beauty competition.

Employers were also invited to head-hunt for potential recruits to their salons.

Tracey Marshall, programme leader for hair and beauty therapy courses at the college, said: “The standard of work this year was exceptionally high.

“The students practiced for two months to prepare for the event, looking into the history of hair and make-up and exploring new and exciting techniques. It was fantastic to see their hard work pay off.”

The judging panel was made up of Melina Finch, the manager of Riverhills Spa Ipswich; Sian Grey, a freelance makeup artist; Lucy Martin, artistic director of Toni & Guy in Bury St Edmunds; Liz Rose, a hairdressing assessor and previous salon owner; and Sheena Sanderson, salon owner of Koo Koo Hair in Melton.

Sian said: “It has been really nice to see the students creativity and passion and such a high standard of work.”

The event was sponsored with prizes from Ellisons Hair and Beauty Supplies, Barkers Hair and Beauty Supplies and Capital Hair and Beauty Supplies.

Photography students Chloe Rackham, Michael Barnard, Amy Littlejohn and Chelsea Spurgeon took pictures of the event.