The winner of a regional beauty contest is preparing to strut her stuff in the national final.

Jade Elliott, 18, of Desford, was crowned Miss Leicestershire last month and, in a few weeks, will represent the county in the final of Miss England.

Jade battled against 20 other finalists, selected from more than 100 entrants, to take the county title.

As well as a modelling contract, she won a photography package, jewellery and membership of a casting website.

She said she would be delighted to win the Miss England crown.

"I would be absolutely shocked – it would be amazing to win," she said.

"Last year, I came third in the Miss Leicestershire contest.

"I enjoyed it so much I entered again this year and won, which took a few days to sink in."

Jade is now earning money before going to university next year to study fashion design.

The runners-up in the Miss Leicestershire contest were Natasha Hawkes and Heather Elrick-Tobin.

The winner of Miss England, which takes place on Monday, July 20, will go forward to Miss World.

The pageant will be held in South Africa in December.