TWO talented tattoo artists are set to swap the town centre for the scenic sights of Finland after being invited to a convention to showcase their skills against the world's best.

Danny Edwards, aged 31, owner of Forever Ink, on Sankey Street, and 21-year-old Sophie Brown, who has worked at the shop for over 12 months, impressed at last month's in-store Tattoo Freeze event, after which they received the good news.

But despite winning over fans, finding out they had been selected to join the finest artists from across the globe in May, stunned the pair.

"There is just nothing better than being invited to the convention - people from all over will be there and it is going to be a great experience for both of us," said Danny, who opened his studio 15 months ago.

"We both have a natural ability to learn and are always doing so. Even the pressure of being up against the other artists won't affect me - I actually enjoy the pressure during events.

"It was difficult when I opened the business but now there is so much work going on at the studio, it really is amazing and hopefully it continues."

Prior to the main event in May, the skilled duo are set to take part in a number of events, including this year's Tattoo Tea Party at Manchester venue EventCity from February 28 - March 1.

The upcoming competitions penned in the diary pay testament to the determination of Danny, who always envisioned a bright future in the industry, but his Warrington base remains top priority.

"We have got an award-winning studio here now and got that recognition which we have really worked hard for," he said.

"Doing the conventions and other things throughout the year is really good as it allows us to show off the studio and makes people aware of exactly the kind of work we do."

To help ease the additional in-store workload, 29-year-old David Brazendale has joined the ranks of Forever Ink.

"There is three of us doing the tattoos now - David is another talented artist so it has been good to get him in," added Danny.