A nail artist from Ellesmere Port has been shortlisted as one of the best mobile nailists in the country with a top title beckoning.

Kayleigh Evans, 26, of Lindisfarne Avenue, Stanney Oaks, who covers Ellesmere Port, Chester and North Wales, entered the Scratch Star awards last autumn.

The awards are said to be the first and only ceremony dedicated solely to the nail industry.

Kayleigh was over the moon after learning she had been chosen as one of the top five finalists in her category to compete in a luxury manicure in London.

Nails by mobile nail technician Kayleigh Evans of Ellesmere Port

Specialising in Gelish nails, she has 10 years experience in nails and has been mobile for six years.

“I pride myself in delivering a top class nail service in the comfort of the client’s own home,” said Kayleigh.

For the competition she had to send in photos of nails she had done, explain why she believed she should win and forward a client testimonial.

“In February I received an email to say I had been chosen in the top five finalists in the UK.

“On March 17 I went to London to compete at London College of Beauty where I had to do a luxury manicure on a model in front of judges.

“On May 11 we go back to London to the awards ceremony to find out who is the winner.”

Kayleigh, inspired by mum Julie Perkins, a holistic therapist, added: “I am just thrilled to get to the top five.

“I feel it is a massive achievement and the support and encouragement I have had from clients, family and friends has been overwhelming.

“I started my business at the beginning of the recession and was worried how successful it would be.

“Now nearly six years later I have a big clientele, a good reputation and I'm looking forward to my future in the nail industry.”

Kayleigh went to West Cheshire College in Ellesmere Port when she was 16 and did a manicure, pedicure and waxing course.

She then went to college in Windsor for more beauty training and goes on regular courses to update her skills.

She says of mum Julie: “She was the one who persuaded my to go mobile and has all always been very supportive and encouraging in my career.”

A client describes Kayleigh as ‘a very talented and experienced nail technician who shows professionalism and pride in everything that she does....a fab professional who loves her job’.

Meanwhile for Kayleigh it’s the wait until May to discover how well she has done.