by NADIA JEFFERSON-BROWN STYLIST Lyndsey Stewart is rapidly proving she is a cut above the rest.

The Lancaster hairdresser has won her way to the second stage of the international Wella Trend Vision Award 2004, beating off scores of others.

She is now gearing up for the regional heat on June 8 when her task will be to come up with a fresh look for her model, 20-year-old Jordana Hall.

"I never expected to do this well," admits Lyndsey, who could represent the UK in the finals if she makes it to the top.

Her first round success was secured with the help of Jordana's sister Jemma, who works with Lyndsey at David Frank Hair and Beauty.

Lyndsey has drawn on the theme Secret Affairs' as inspiration for both heats, focusing on Arabian nights with rich fabrics and bold costume jewellery.

"When I start thinking of a theme I reel off ideas and try different things. If it works I use it. Once I start, I can't stop," she says.

At just 21, Lyndsey is no stranger to salon success and says she thrives off the creative challenge of competitions.

"These competitions give me the chance to do something really different, more extreme, and not just the commercial look."

With five years hairdressing experience, she has a number of awards under her belt, including a Photographic Hair and Beauty Magazine award in 2003.

Most noticeably, she is one of a select few chosen for the Schwarzkopf Young Artistic Team, helping bring out new trends by giving demon-strations across the country