A BEAUTY THERAPIST from Neyland has won gold in a Welsh Government-backed competition to boost skills in Wales.

Aromatherapist Demi Hindley, 20, competed at NPTC Group (Brecon Beacons Campus) against students from colleges across Wales, including Coleg y Cymoedd, Coleg Sir Gâr, and Pembrokeshire College.

The finalists all had to complete a consultation, a full-body aromatherapy massage and give aftercare advice. The competitors were then marked on their safe working practices, following correct methods and procedures, skills and accuracy.

Demi, from Neyland, who is currently working towards her Level 3 Complimentary Therapy Qualification at Pembrokeshire College, said she was very proud of her achievement.

“I had such a brilliant day and genuinely didn’t expect to win.

“The competition was quite challenging, as there is always an added pressure to display what you’ve learnt in college in front of judges and within a set time period.

“Although it was nerve-wracking it was a great experience and I am so happy to have just been involved, let alone win the competition.”

Demi will now go forward to represent Coleg Gwent in the WorldSkills UK Holistic therapy- Aromatherapy Competition with the aim of representing Team Wales at this year's Skills Show.

Skills Competition Wales is designed to promote the importance of developing a highly-skilled workforce and aims to boost high level skills in Wales. Supported by the European Social Fund, the Welsh Government is running a total of 32 Skills Competitions in 2014 in a range of sectors, from carpentry and hairdressing to automotive and patisserie.

Deputy Minister for Skills and Technology, Ken Skates AM, congratulated Demi on her success.

“We have a truly diverse set of skills in Wales and these are all to be celebrated. It takes hard work, determination and a high level of skill to compete against Wales’ most talented apprentices and learners. We wish Demi and all the other finalists and winners the very best of luck, not only in the next round of the competitions, but also in the careers they choose to go on and follow.”