Mary has worked as a model for Star International Ltd for 14 months in Hong Kong. She wants to leave for a new job at a rival agency, Moon Models Ltd, also in Hong Kong. However, when she went to hand in her notice to Star International Ltd, she was informed that her contract contained a non-compete clause that stated she was not allowed to work as a model in Hong Kong for one year after leaving Star International Ltd. The clause expressly mentioned Moon Models Ltd as an example of a modelling company that she would not be allowed to join. 5

Mary comes to you for legal advice. She also informs you that her contract dictates that she must work on all statutory holidays without pay and that she is not entitled to sick pay.

Advise Mary on whether the non-compete clause is valid, and any other issues with her employment contract.