The top stylist, who runs Reds Hair & Beauty, which has salons in East Herrington and Sunderland city centre, scooped the prestigious title at the 25th British Hairdressing Awards.

The awards – the hairdressing "Oscars" – were presented by X Factor host Dermot O'Leary and featured nearly 2,000 guests from the world of hairdressing, fashion and media.

Susan competed against five stylists in the category of North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year and said she was overwhelmed to win.

She said: "I was so pleased to win the title of North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year. This award is also a great tribute to the fantastic hairdressing talent and creativity within the North East.

2009 has been a fantastic year for the entire team at Reds Hair & Beauty and I would like to dedicate this award to them as without their amazing help and support I would not have won this award."

Jayne Lewis-Orr, of Hairdressers Journal International, added: "British hairdressing is renowned throughout the world for its creativity and innovation, and with the British Hairdressing Awards we are recognising, rewarding and celebrating the best of British. Susan should be incredibly proud of her achievements."