Award-winning pair are cut above

A hair-stylist from Cannock has overcome adversity to be voted a cut above at an awards ceremony.

Leah Hancox, won her category for the Personal Achievement 16-18 section in the Staffordshire Apprenticeship Awards.

She was one of two finalists from the Cannock area to be shortlisted.

Studying at Cannock College, where she trains as a hairdresser, Leah has more to contend with than most 16-year-olds.

Her mentor and nominator at 5C's Training, in Cannock, Kerry Dye said: "Leah cares for her grandmother and has very little spare time. She also struggles with dyslexia, which put her behind at school. She left without the qualifications she needed, and deserved, but has battled on regardless and shown great maturity for someone of her age.

"She quickly became a popular member of her group responding well to her new learning environment and has become an inspiration to others.

"She is now well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a hairdresser and I wish her well in her future."

As category winner, Leah walked away with an iPod, music vouchers, a trophy and Alton Towers tickets.

Leah, from Cecil Street, Chadsmoor, said: "I can't believe I've won. I don't know what to say. Thank you to everyone who has supported me such as my learning providers 5C's, my college mentors, and of course, my gran.

"It hasn't been easy, but knowing I've got the support of everyone around me makes it that bit easier."

The second successful finalist was 16-year-old Aaron Paskin, from Mount Street, Hednesford, who works and studies at Performance Through People in Cannock where he is an office administrator. He was awarded a runners-up place in the 14-16 category, and also left with an iPod, music vouchers, a trophy and Alton Towers tickets.

The awards, organised by the Staffordshire Providers' Association, are funded by Staffordshire Learning and Skills Council.