A WOMAN who was once confined to a wheelchair has overcome the odds to open her second business.

Gail Old, of Peterlee, has achieved her ambition by opening Talons Nail and Beauty, in Easington, after getting help from Easington Action team for Jobs and Inbiz.

The 43-year-old mother-of-two opened her first salon within Image hairdressers at Oakerside Park, in Peterlee, two years ago.

Ms Old was confined to a wheelchair eight years ago when she caught a viral infection that attacked her muscles. She was unable to work for the next six years.

She said: "Doctors told me I had to use a wheelchair, but I was determined to prove them wrong and went and did training to build up my strength."

When Ms Old felt well enough to return to work, she decided to go for a career in the beauty industry.

After completing her training, she heard about a room in her local hairdressers that was available to rent.

She said: "I knew it was a busy salon, but starting my own business was a bit daunting so I contacted Easington Action Team for Jobs for advice."

The team offered Ms Old advice about starting her own business and a grant to help her buy essential beauty tools to get her business off the ground.

Her advisor, Graeme Cadas, said: "It is fantastic to see Gail doing so well.

"She has worked really hard to achieve her dream and her determination has clearly paid off.

"As well as having a great career, she has also created employment opportunities for nine local people."