L'Oreal and England proving Simon is cut above

Simon Townley (30) is now set to showcase his skills at huge events over the next two years including London Fashion Week for L’Oreal’s ID Artists team.

The achievement is the latest in a remarkable year for the Brunshaw Primary School pupil who last month was invited to France to style the hair of England football stars during Euro 2016.

Simon, who has his own salon in St James’s Street, said: “It’s been a brilliant year but getting on to the L’Oreal team is definitely the culmination of everything I’ve been working for my whole career.

“I registered in September and the audition was really intense. I had to present my style in front of some top industry judges in Manchester – it was nerve wracking.”

Simon’s fashion inspired “modern gothic” look which he perfected on local model Brittany Hargreaves impressed the judge enough to win a coveted place on the team.

Nichola Scott-Challinor, area manager North for L’Oreal Professionel, said: “We handpick the very best emerging talents in the UK. The auditions to get on the team are very gruelling so it is a fantastic achievement for Simon.

“He had to present his own concept which really impressed our panel. He will now backstage for the next two years on our behalf at some huge events.”

Simon, who in recent years has become good friends with Burnley and England goalkeeper Tom Heaton, styled the hair for fellow Three Lions stoppers Joe Hart and Fraser Forster during the team’s ill-fated Euro campaign, as well as centre-half Gary Cahill.

He also regularly styles Liverpool forward and former Claret Danny Ings.

Dad-of-three Simon added: “Going to France was a real buzz and the players were all very good to me. They have congratulated me about my L’Oreal contract which is nice.

“It’s been a brilliant year.”