A MAKE-UP artist who has worked on Call the Midwife and Phantom of the Opera has visited Bradford College to give advice to students.

Julia Townend, who has more than 20 years’ experience in fashion, theatre, film and television spoke to students about how to break into the competitive industry.

Ms Townend, who runs a studio in Birstall, said: “To be a makeup artist is an amazing career.

“I feel honoured to do the work I do. It is hard work. You have to be resilient and persistent and you have to get on with people and make connections.

“I wanted to tell the students to stick with it. They are on a great course with great facilities and excellent training and I wish them all the best in their careers.”

She also gave tips on how to get work experience, networking and how to use social media, and was also quizzed by students on her career.

“I want to help bridge the gap between North and South,” she continued.

“I do workshops, invite established designers from London and there is a makeup shop as well.

“I am not taking any business away from colleges. It is about enriching education. I run monthly drop-in sessions for students and I am pulling favours and bringing in some great artists for talks.

“In London, I had a great network in the makeup world. It is great to think we can start something like that for artists up here.

“I see it as a creative hub for the North of England.”

Lisa Dawkins, course tutor on the Media Makeup with Special Effects degree at Bradford College, added: “We are keen to encourage and help students build a strong network of contacts in the industry.

“It is vital for them to have first-hand experience and knowledge. I have been in the industry over 25 years and realised that the networking is the key to progression into paid work.

“I feel very passionate about what Julia is doing and that colleges benefit from her wide industry knowledge.”