A PARKSTONE hair salon has been nominated for a national award as a result of its social media prowess.

The Strand Of London on Ashley Road is a finalist for Hair and Beauty Awards' 'Best Social Media' award.

The salon's manager Michael Pollock entered the competition after making changes to the salon's social media.

It was later announced that the salon is in the top 50 shortlisted for the award.

Salon owner, Joanne Newman said: "We didn't expect this at all, it was a complete shock.

"During lockdown we kept ourselves really busy. We renovated the whole salon, appointed Michael, rebranded, and worked towards the salon's bigger vision.

"We then started to look at social media. Michael worked to make our posts recognisable so that when people see the posts, they are easily identifiable as The Strand."

The Awards, which have a variety of categories, will announce the winners in March with the date to be confirmed.

A virtual ceremony will be held for all finalists to attend.

Joanne said: "The award has really driven us and confirmed our vision for the salon. It makes us want to work harder and become the best salon in Poole.

"Social media has become a way of the world and we can use it to show people what we're capable of."