A forklift truck driver-turned nail technician has seen the launch of his own brand of products in Manchester's prestigious Harvey Nichols store.

Bradford-born Leighton Denny tried his hand at forklift truck driving, found it wasn't for him, and was introduced to the totally contrasting career after watching his mum having her nails done on a family holiday in the States.

He swapped grind for glamour and opened his own salon in his parents' Tong Street premises.

And since moving to London eight years ago, he has seen his career take off.

He is four times winner of the British Nail Technician of the Year Award and clients have included Big Brother host Davina McCall, former Dynasty star Joan Collins, sports presenter Gaby Logan, supermodels Caprice, Kate Moss and Helena Christensen, popstar Rachel Stevens and Radio 1 DJ Sara Cox.

The 31-year-old has developed his own nail-care ranges for high street store Marks & Spencer and boasts of being the brains behind the most expensive manicure in the world, a £16,500 talon creation of real diamonds, rubies and sapphires for a magazine cover-shoot.

Earlier this year he opened his own concession in Urban Retreat within London's exclusive Knightsbridge store, Harrods, and last Thursday oversaw the launch of his brand in Harvey Nichols, Manchester.

"My ultimate ambition would be to launch in the USA - I'm in talks at the moment," he said.

But for all his worldwide travels, the Bradford lad makes sure he regularly returns to his birthplace, where he still has family.

"I do miss home and my family so much some times, but we speak every day on the telephone," said Leighton.

"I do try to get home as much as possible."