A NANTWICH-based stylist could be heading to London Fashion Week after reaching the semi-finals of major competition.

David Macfarlane from Francesco Group in Pillory Street is one of only a few hairdressers in the region to reach the semis of Talentspotting 2003.

Competition for places in the contest was fierce due to a very high standard and a record number of entries; David's skills proved successful and he'll be in Manchester for the next stage, next month.

First the 21-year-old, who lives in Flag Lane, Crewe, had to submit a storyboard that demonstrated his expertise in all aspects of hairdressing and his ideas for an exciting presentation live on stage.

The first round entries were judged by well-known names in the industry and product manufacturers.

Now each semi-finalist, including David has the chance to turn his ideas into reality.

On October 5, he will have 10 minutes on stage to present his show, demonstrating hairdressing looks on top models and using lighting, sound effects and video footage.

The overall winner will be announced in November and will win a photoshoot and double page spread in Company Magazine, a shoot and four-page spread in industry magazine Creative Head, courses worth £100 and opportunities to assist on session shows and London Fashion Week.

Noted for his creative ideas, David is not only a stylist at the Nantwich salon but a member of Francesco Group's Creative Team working on photoshoots and live shows.

"I'm definitely looking forward to it," he said.

"It's pretty major and it will be great to turn my ideas into reality."