Rae Palmer, Schwarzkopf Ambassador and UK Creative Director of La Biosthetique, has won the prestigious British Hairdressing Awards title Southern Hairdresser of the Year. Rae, a specialist in cut, colour and trichology, runs Rae Palmer Hairdressing in Southsea, Hampshire. The stunning £250,000 salon combines a luxurious salon environment complemented by a friendly and professional service, and includes a dedicated Hair Therapy Room - a UK first - where clients can have the health benefits of a hair and scalp treatment in the luxury of a beauty environment.

Rae's second salon is due to open in Chichester in 2009. Rae said, "I'm absolutely delighted to be named Southern Hairdresser of the Year - it's fantastic to be honoured by my peers in this way. The collection epitomises the Rae Palmer ethos of glamorous, healthy, sexy hair."

Her stunning collection of 8 photographs was chosen as the winner by leading beauty journalists and hairdressers, and Rae collected her award last night (November 24) at a glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House Hotel, London.