A CARPET designer hopes to decorate some of the best floors in the world after winning contracts in Europe and America.

Hilary Harrison is launching her new rug design business at the prestigious BBC Good Homes Show at the Birmingham NEC and is confident she will soon have a worldwide reputation.

Until recently Hilary - who works from her home at Ross Green, Wichenford, and is inspired by the local countryside - has been selling designs for carpets to other manufacturers.

She has decided to launch a contemporary rug design and supply service, as well as selling products for sale from a small stock.

"Judging by reactions so far they certainly have that 'wow' factor," said Hilary.

"The few people who have seen the new range described them as works of art for your floor.

"I'm absolutely delighted with our success. I hope my rugs will be in homes all over the world because there aren't many people doing this.

"I'm really excited about the Good Homes Show in May as it will be a showcase for my work and my first rug exhibition."

Carpet manufacturer Dupont is also using her designs to promote their latest microfibres.

Hilary's success is even sweeter because the international designer was an accountant until she enrolled on a full-time art course at Hereford College of Art, where she specialised in design for interiors and floor coverings.

"That was a life-changing decision for me, and one I certainly don't regret," said the 38-year-old.

The mother-of-four has been on a quest to find manufacturers to supply the wool and make top quality rugs.

"I select my wool from New Zealand where the farmer specialises in the production of quality wool destined for use in interior textiles," explained Hilary.

"New Zealand wool is clean and white enabling it to take dye like no other fibre. This achieves an unrivalled clarity of colour and richness."