Published at 12:28, Tuesday, 08 January 2013

AN award-winning nail technician has set up her own business.

NEW VENTURE: Nail technician Kathryn Duff of KD Nails in her premises above The Priory Hair and Beauty Salon, with her Scottish Nail Technician of the Year award JON GRANGER REF: 50042902B000

Kathryn Duff proved herself to be one of the top 10 emerging UK nail technicians when she was a national finalist in the nail art contest at a WorldSkills UK competition.

Mrs Duff, who also won a Scottish nail art competition, established KD Nails on December 1.

The former Furness College student is based above The Priory Hair and Beauty Salon, in Duke Street, Barrow.

The 30-year-old offers a range of nail services, including the popular gel polishes, extensions, nail art, manicures, twinkle toes and designs using Swarovski crystals. Her award-winning work has included lavish nails with themes such as “Midas touch” and Bollywood.

Mrs Duff can also take the service to the clients.

The mum-of-two said: “I’m very proud of setting up my own business. It’s a professional salon and I use top-quality products.

“I’m in a brilliant location above The Priory.

“If people cannot get to the salon I can also go out to them.”

Mrs Duff said she has enjoyed her first month of business and she has offers for new clients and “tell a friend” discounts.

She completed her studies at Furness College in the summer.

Mrs Duff said: “I really enjoyed my time at college. I had lots of support from my tutor Rachel, I couldn’t have done it without her.”

Rachel Barrow, lecturer in nail services and beauty therapy at Furness College, said: “I am extremely proud of Kathryn’s achievements and motivation throughout the Level Three nail services course.

“She was an exemplary student who achieved excellent results in every external competition she entered.

“Her nail enhancement work was always to an extremely high standard and I wish her every success in her new business venture.”

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