A TROWBRIDGE mum who only set up her own nail technician business five months ago is already up for an award at the South Coast Nail Industry Awards, which will take place on Sunday.

Nic Para, who lives with her husband Dan and their two children in Jacklins Close, Hilperton Marsh, decided to go self-employed after her contract with Selwood Housing came to an end while she was pregnant with her second child.

The 34-year-old said she had always had an interest in designing nails and began training with Nail Harmony UK and Essential Beauty Training in Swindon, under the guidance of trainer Carole Nicol.

She then set up Nic’s Nails and Beauty in December last year from her home, before being nominated for the South Coast Gel Polish Technician of the Year at the South of England awards.

Mrs Para said: “I have only been going since December, so to be up for an award is absolutely fantastic. My husband Dan has been very supportive, as have all my friends and family.

“I previously worked for Selwood Housing for three years, but my contract came to an end while I was pregnant and I decided I wanted to go self-employed so I could fit work around the kids.

“I have always been interested in being a nail technician and I started training in April 2014, before setting up my company for December. I have already achieved a lot in that time and this is a fantastic opportunity even if I don’t win.

“I couldn’t believe it when I got the email saying I was a finalists and I am really proud of myself. I only found out about it when I met one of the sponsors and they said I should enter my work.”

The competition, which is sponsored by Denise Taylor Professional Nails, will take place in Dorset on Sunday (April 26) and will be followed by an awards ceremony where the winners will be announced.

Mrs Para added: “I will be judged on a number of things, including my application of the nail polish, the cleanliness of my tools and the design of the Gel Polish. I’m really nervous, but I’m also excited as it will be great exposure.”