A make-up specialist returned to her college to explain how she laid the foundation of her career.

Lydia Birch-Hampson studied level two and three beauty therapy at South Cheshire College and now works as a product specialist for Chester-based Mac make-up.

She said: “I’ve had a fantastic time after completing my college course and looking back I really appreciate what I learned at college because it has stood me in good stead.” Lydia has also used her skills at national events such as London Fashion Week and the show Dancing on Ice. She added: “Hopefully, they found the demonstrations and talk interesting. I told students the make-up industry is massively competitive, but it’s also very rewarding.”

Beauty and make-up lecturer Maxine Smith said: “Visits like this from former students inspire our current students to set their sights high.”