Tutbury apprentice reaches national final in major hair and beauty awards

A young stylist from Tutbury has earned a place on the national stage after reaching the final of one of the UK’s biggest hair and beauty competitions.

Millie Field, 17, is currently in the second year of her apprenticeship at KH Hair in Tutbury and has been shortlisted for ‘Trainee of the Year’ at the Official UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026. The category sees her representing Burton upon Trent among the UK’s rising stars in the industry.

Millie said she entered the awards simply to challenge herself - and didn’t expect to get quite this far.

“I entered just to give it my best shot, but I never dreamed I’d get anywhere,” she said. “To be in the finals has made me so happy. 

Winning would be amazing, so I’m keeping everything crossed for the final.”

Her success has also been warmly celebrated by the team at KH Hair.

Salon director Beckie Maznenko said Millie’s dedication and enthusiasm have stood out since the start of her training.

“Being shortlisted for Trainee of the Year representing Burton upon Trent is such an amazing achievement and so well deserved,” she said. “Millie’s hard work, passion and dedication are shining through and I’m sure this is only the beginning for her. We’re all incredibly proud of her.”

Although the national spotlight is a big moment, Millie says she’s firmly focused on building her skills and completing her qualification later this year. She’s already planning further training, particularly in specialist hair extension techniques, so she can offer even more to her clients.

Owning her own salon is the long-term dream - but for now she’s happy honing her craft in Tutbury.

The Official UK Hair and Beauty Awards are widely regarded as the industry’s equivalent of the Oscars, celebrating talent from salons across the country.

The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony at Manchester’s AO Arena on Saturday 15 August, where Millie will be hoping Burton brings home the trophy. ✂️✨

We’ll certainly be cheering her on from this side of the Trent.