A local nail professional is celebrating a win after being named the Gel Polish Stylist of the Year.

Jiak Hing, 36, owner of Jark Nails at Douglas House on Belmont Road, won the award at this year's Scratch Star Awards, sponsored by Salon System Gellux.

Guest attended The Scratch Stars Party at The Steel Yard in London, celebrating nail technicians, bloggers and salons from across the UK.

Jiak fought off  competition at a judging day, where she had to create a set of nail enhancements to specified criteria within one hour.

Her work was then scrutinised by a panel of industry experts.

Along with taking home the sought-after gold trophy, Jiak will be profiled across Scratch Magazine’s platforms throughout the coming year.

Speaking about her achievement, Jiak said: "I am absolutely honoured to recieve an award that recognises my skills and hardwork.

"I'm over the moon and completely shocked.

"Really thank you so much to everyone that supported me throughout this nail journey.

"Never give up and keep going, this has always been my motto to drive myself further."

The night, which was hosted by BBC Radio 1’s Scott Mills alongside Scratch’s managing editor, Helena Biggs, saw winners crowned across 18 categories.

Tinchy Stryder entertained the crowd with a 30-minute set of his most-loved hits while a magician wowed partygoers.

The annual awards is presented by the nail industry publication, Scratch magazine, and this year celebrated 10 years of recognising and rewarding outstanding talent and achievement within the professional nail sector. 

Helena Biggs, managing editor of Scratch Magazine, said: “Ten years ago, Scratch magazine launched the Scratch Stars Awards to recognise the incredible skill, business acumen and client care shown by members of the UK nail industry.

“The breadth of talent and passion in our sector is incredible, and Scratch is delighted to give them an awards platform to show this off.

"I applaud every single person and team that put themselves forward for a Scratch Star this year, and while there can only be one winner of each title, the scores were closer than ever – and the class of 2022 shines brightly.”

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