Chance to compete for top crown

And the Miss Blackpool competition is once again open for contestants to sign up for a chance to scoop the 2017 crown.

The well-known beauty contest is free to enter and this year’s grand final will take place on Friday, July 28, at the glittering Paradise Room, at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

The night is always a glamorous occasion, with guests able to come and support the girls, enjoy entertainment, two-course meal and a catwalk show.

The prestigious black-tie event will be compered by Ian Tolley and Miss Blackpool 2011 Hollie Robinson.

Karen Jean Cookson, of Blackpool-based Angels Elite modelling agency – which organises the annual contest – said: “The Miss Blackpool competition is a great chance for girls to take part in catwalk show.

“It can be a fabulous start to modelling, building confidence and being with a fabulous team of girls.

“So many of the girls who have taken part have made friendships for life, from being part of Miss Blackpool.

“Contestants have achieved so much through entering Miss Blackpool.

“We are always looking for new faces for future modelling events and the competition is a really great for us to meet those new faces.”

To enter the pageant, women must be aged between 17 and 30 years on July 28.

And several years ago, the application process was made even easier for those wanting to take part.

Gone are the days of having to attend heats.

Now all would-be Miss Blackpools have to do is email some photographs of themselves to organisers Angels Elite modelling – including their name, age, contact details and address. The closing date for entries this year is July 1.

The grand final itself includes an opening scene, followed by three rounds – beachwear with sarong, jeans and T-shirt fashion routine, and an evening wear scene.

Karen added: “We are currently looking for a cash sponsor and raffle prizes.

“If any local businesses want to sponsor Miss Blackpool, then we would love to hear from them.”

Last year’s Miss Blackpool was Beth Dust.

The 24-year-old from Thornton, scooped the title at the third attempt.

The former Cardinal Allen pupil – who runs her own semi-permanent make-up business – has had a busy year of attending local events, and getting involved in fundraising.

She helped Santa Claus switch on Blackpool’s Christmas lights in December and she presented an award at the Rock FM Cash 4 Kids Time to Shine’ awards, which honours heroes from across Lancashire.

Tickets, including VIP reserved seating and a two-course meal cost £25, or tickets for the show-only, cost £15.

For tickets, more information or to enter the competition, email [email protected] or call (01253) 820226 or 07860451878.