Teen dream gets closer for student

The 18-year-old law student, of Poulton, is preparing for the final of the Miss Teen GB contest, in October, having been named as a finalist.

The two-day event will take place at the Globe Theatre, at the Pleasure Beach, Blackpool.

It includes a beauty queen challenge day, photo shoots and a pyjama party to help contestants get to know each other better.

There will be a catwalk show with three sections being judged – fashion wear, evening wear and an interview.

Ashleigh, who won the title of Miss Junior Fylde Coast in 2013 and is now Miss Teen Fylde Coast, said winning the Miss Teen GB crown would be a dream come true.

She said: “When I found out I was through to the final I was over-the-moon – I’ve wanted to do the pageant for so long, and as it’s my final year being able to do so because of the age range, I was also relieved.

“I’m really looking forward to it – I’ve already spoken to some of the other finalists via social media and they all seem lovely.

“I’m very proud to be representing my local area, especially with the grand final being in Blackpool itself.”

And Ashleigh has organised plenty of fundraising to keep her busy until the final.

On June 6, she will be abseiling down the Big One at the Pleasure Beach, to raise money for ABF Soldiers Charity.

On September 10, she will be taking part in Tough Mudder and she is also currently running an online raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses – in aid of Together For Short Lives, which helps support children and their families with a life-limiting illness.

But she says she does not intend to stop there.

“In the run up to the final, I will be hoping to make appearances as Miss Teen Fylde Coast and I am welcoming any opportunities to make an appearance at local events – contact me via my ‘Ashleigh Wild - Miss Teen Fylde Coast’ Facebook page to organise my participation.

“I’m delighted to announce I am being sponsored by Luscious Locks hair extensions, based at Lashes Salon, in Fleetwood.”

Organisers of the Miss Teen GB contest say it is about much more than being a pretty face. The interview section of the final counts for 50 per cent of contestants’ score.

The contest, open to girls aged 11 to 19 years, aims to be a positive and confidence-building experience for young girls and teenagers.

The idea is for girls to make new friends from across the country, and combine glamour and having fun, with celebrating success and achievements.

The winner of the Miss Teen Great Britain competition will have a year ahead of appearances, charity work and possible modelling and TV opportunities with a top teen model agency.

Find out more at www.missteengreatbritain.co.uk