A Devon hairdresser has said talent can come from anywhere after securing a place in the grand final of one of the UK’s most prestigious hairdressing competitions.
Zoe Hodgkiss, of Zoe Hodgkiss – Hair Artistry, impressed judges at the Western regional semi-final of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy in Bristol to earn a place in the national final at The O2 in London this summer.
The competition, founded by L’Oréal Professionnel and now in its 70th year, showcases colourists from across the UK. The Western regional semi-final took place at the Harbour Hotel in Bristol.
Zoe, who is based in Holsworthy, said reaching the final had been an emotional moment.
She said: “For years, I watched from the sidelines while other people lived their dreams, and I honestly did not think I had the confidence to put myself forward.
“So I focused on building my skills, kept working hard, and one day decided I should be up there showing people what I can do instead of shrinking myself.
“So, hearing I was through to the grand final at The O2 was such an emotional moment. It means everything to my clients and me because they know how hard I work to keep improving. I cannot wait to celebrate it with them.”
Zoe added: “What I love about this competition is that anyone can win; you can be from a small town like mine. You do not need millions of followers; it is about talent, creativity and believing in yourself.”
Industry experts including Marlon Hawkins of Brooks & Brooks, Jason Miller of Charlie Miller, Karen Dodds of CRC-Hair, Paul Davey of Davey Dublin and Desmond Murray judged the competition.
Other finalists from the Western region included Anthony John Salons stylists Eboni Snook and Troy Boyd from Lichfield, alongside Chloe Woodward of The Beauty Barn in Gloucestershire and Izzie Adams of Idlewild Hairdressing in Oxford.
Jason Miller, a 2026 L’Oréal Colour Trophy judge, said: “It is my 44th year in this industry, and I do not think I have missed many L’Oréal Colour Trophy finals in that time.
“It never fails to amaze me just how much passion, creativity and dedication people bring to the competition.
“As we celebrate the 70th year of L’Oréal Colour Trophy, the standard remains as high as ever.”
The L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 UK Grand Final will take place on Monday, July 6, at The O2 in London.
More information is available at L’Oréal Colour Trophy
