Beauty with a purpose '“ that's the message from Miss Fylde Coast

Coral Hopkinson, who scooped the Miss Fylde Coast title in March, is taking part in the Miss England semi-finals on June 4, at Kelham Hall.

Coral, who works at Blackpool Tower, with the events photo team, is hoping local people will get behind her to support her in the contest.

The 19-year-old, from Thornton, hope to dispel some of the stereotypes and myths surrounding beauty contests.

Here she tells her story to Gazette readers:

“As I got handed the title of Miss Fylde Coast on March 19, I haven’t had much time to create events.

“However, the amount of effort I have put into everything, from charity work to appearances, I am extremely happy with.

“I have done many things to help raise funds for the wonderful charity Beauty With A Purpose.

“They raise funds to help disabled and disadvantaged children all over the world.

“As mentioned, I haven’t been able to plan many big events, however I have been successful in little things such as a car boot and cake stalls with raffles.

“Being in the Miss England semi-finals, I am already half-way to my dream and I can’t believe it.

“To be able to get a place for the grand final of Miss England at Resorts World Birmingham, on July 14, would be incredible – and once again I would be one step closer to my dream of holding the title as Miss England.

“On the lead-up to the semi-finals, I have been focusing on many areas such as anxiety and stereotypes.

“These competitions are not what people think, they are friendly, fun and you gain friends for life.

“For the past week, I have been busy making my eco dress for the semi-final of Miss England, this years theme is Lady in Red.

“This is where you gather eco-friendly, donated or charity shop material and make an outfit to wear.

“I’ve been back to Hodgson High School, as a former student to talk with Year 9 and 10 pupils about stress and anxiety – as it is coming up to their exams, about Miss England and my title as Miss Fylde Coast too.

“I held a cake stall at break and lunch, giving the pupils a chance to help me raise funds for Beauty With A Purpose.

“I really want to make a difference, I’d like to change people’s opinions of these competitions and show them what they really are about.

“Everything about them is so positive and unique for the males and females taking part.

“I love making appearances as Miss Fylde Coast, as it gives me a chance to meet local people, to tell people about who I am, what I do and what the competitions are all about.

“Recently, I went to the Fleetwood Rugby Club for a family fun day and was greeted by the Mayor of Fleetwood and then went on to meet the Emmerdale cast and Lancashire Fire Services too, all incredible people.

“I’m very grateful to my sponsor Warmlight Windows and Joinery and for all the support I have received.”

• To request appearances or to help with fundraising, email [email protected]