A HAIRDRESSER has New York in her sights after getting through to the regional finals of a competition.

Gabrielle Harker, from Darlington, is only two steps away from working behind the scenes at New York fashion week as competition for the Redken Urban Talent Search intensifies.

The 18-year-old will compete in Manchester, today, with three other young hairdressers from the North of England for a place in the national finals.

Miss Harker, who works at Workshop Hairdressing, in Grange Road, Darlington, said: "I'm pleased to have got this far. Considering I'm only 18, I'm happy just to get through the regional final."

Salon owner Susannah Ferguson said: "She is an amazing young hairdresser and is really passionate about her career. We will be giving her our full support."