AN apprentice hairstylist from Ninebanks is one of eight young hopefuls selected out of hundreds across the country to train with the internationally renowned Saks Art Team.

Millie Robinson (18) is in the final stages of her NVQ hairdressing training after two-years at the Saks salon on Priestpopple in Hexham.

But over the next eight months she will be making regular trips to the Saks training academies in Darlington and London to work closely with Saks Art Team members on building her creative skills and portfolio.

Saks currently has over 500 apprentices working in 240 salons nationwide, and the eight Style Stars had to pass a rigorous selection process to win their places on the programme, which culminates in February 2016 with a professional photo shoot directed by the apprentices.

“I had to apply to be considered and had to give a presentation and demonstrate a hair up for a panel of judges,” said Millie.

“It was amazing when I found out I‘d been chosen out of so many people and I‘m really excited to get started.”

Saks art director Luke Pluckrose will be working closely with the Style Stars, who hail from across the country.

He said: “This is an amazing opportunity for these talented young stylists to develop further in a great programme which culminates in a fantastic opportunity to direct a photo shoot.

“The Style Stars programme allows us to train our talented young people to a higher level than ever before.”

Saks national training manager Mandy Durkin said: “The Saks Art Team works all over the world and their experience will bring huge benefits to our most talented young apprentices.”