A STUDENT became a modern day Cinderella when she won a competition to receive a makeover for her first prom.

Blatchington Mill student Ella Bertorelli, 16, said the experience made her feel “so special”.

The lucky pupil received a new hairstyle courtesy of Shine Hair and Beauty, Gloucester Road, Brighton, and a professional make-over by Benefit in Boots, North Street, Brighton.

The contest was run by The Starr Trust charity in partnership with digital marketing agency ThoughtShift and was open to students participating in their Starr Pioneers programme, a partnership between schools and firms designed to help develop social entrepreneurship in young people.

Ella said: “Before the programme I wasn’t very confident but being around new people and helpful mentors encouraged me to become a more confident person.”

The Starr Trust helps young students like Ella to achieve their potential in sports, arts, and education while allowing them to gain skills from working on charity events.

Jonathan Harries, owner of Shine Hair and Beauty said: “It was an absolute delight to work with such an upbeat and positive charity as The Starr Trust.”

“I hope our small offering to the lovely Ella made a difference.”