A MAKE-UP artist who has opened a studio in Rainford was part of the backstage team perfecting models' faces at one of the world's glitziest annual fashion events.

Jen Hunter, 31, of Spectrum Make-Up - based in Rainford Village Hall - was invited to the New York Fashion Week event, where she mingled backstage with famous designers and models.

She said she has already worked on London's fashion week - but that flying over to New York, where she stayed from September 10 to 14, was very special and one of her "greatest achievements".

Her highlights of the week included meeting stylist Kelly Osbourne, daughter of rock star Ozzy and X-Factor judge Sharon, and having a day sightseeing in the city.

Jen said: "It was an incredible opportunity. New York is a super place and it had been a dream of mine.

"I did six shows in four days, doing all sorts of different looks from natural to really strong.

"The fashion world works six months in advance so we were doing looks for spring/summer 2017. There were lots of pastel colours and a feminine feel."

She added: "I loved meeting Kelly Osbourne - she was fun and very passionate, but also surprisingly grounded."

The former Rainford High student studied for a degree in film production but, finding she had a flair for make-up, moved into that field.

She said: "I wasn't great at art but my creative side comes out when it comes to make-up. I'm good with colour and I think of people's faces as my canvas.

"I love making people happy and more confident by transforming them - showing people simple tricks and techniques that work for them. It's a very rewarding career.

"I'm very passionate about my job, so don't have much time for anything else - apart from Saints, I'm a season ticket holder."

She said when starting out in the profession, networking and "getting out there" is vital.

As well as running her studio, where she does make-up for special occasions such as weddings or Halloween parties and runs her own courses, Jen teaches at colleges around the north west.

For more information go to spectrummakeup.co.uk