A NAIL salon in Somerset has been recognised as the best in the county for two years in a row.

Nails and Beauty by Lea is a popular nail salon in Bridgwater that was started in 2016 by Lea Ford. The salon is up for a national award at an awards evening later this year.

Lea began by offering gel nail treatments to her family and friends in the evenings after working her full-time job.

Eventually, word got around of Lea's services, and she enrolled in several courses to gain relevant qualifications, these included Acrylic Enhancements, Builder Gel and Efile Manicures.

Describing the business as a “one-man band”, Lea does everything within the business and her hard work has been recognised, particularly at the English Business Awards.

Nails by Lea has won the Best Nail Salon in Somerset on two occasions after picking up the award last year and at this year’s ceremony in Bristol.

Lea pictured with her partner, Barry, at this year's English Business Awards. (Image: English Business Awards)

The business just missed out on winning the Best Beauty Salon Award for Somerset but will head to an awards night in Birmingham for the grand final of the English Business Awards.

Speaking on her nomination for the award, Lea said: “It is a great honour to be nominated for this prestigious award without my clients, my family, and my friends' support and loyalty.

"I couldn't or wouldn't be recognised for my hard work and determination.

“I strive to create a relaxed, warm, and inviting atmosphere for my clients where they get undivided attention so that I can give them the best treatment and flawless finish in all treatments I offer them.

“I must not forget my wonderful friends and clients, for without their continued support, loyalty and custom, my business wouldn’t be where it is today.”

Last year, the grand finalist awards were held in Birmingham where Lea’s salon finished in the top six in the country.

Lea is optimistic about her chances of being crowned England’s best and hopes she can go a few steps further in the final.

Lea said: “Unfortunately I missed out but came in the top six in the country! Pretty impressive for a one-man band salon to beat some big salons within the county and country. 

“I now go on to attend the awards night in Birmingham in November for the Grand Final.”