Put your money on Hollie

The 20-year-old not only won the titles of Miss Blackpool and Miss West Lancashire in 2011, and was a finalist in the Miss England pageant, she also just finished in the top five of the Grosvenor G Casino national Search for a Model.

Hollie, who works in fashion retail, had won the Blackpool heat of the catwalk competition when she impressed the judges with her polished runway skills, effortless poise and natural talent.

And when she took part in the grand final of the national pageant at Grosvenor G Casino, in Coventry, she again left a lasting impression, although she was pipped to the post for the top spot by Leeds University graduate Scarlett Cook.

There were around 700 entries to the national competition, which included a top prize of a modelling contract with leading London-based modelling agency nevs, and £1,000 in prize money.

Former Rossall School pupil Hollie says she enjoys taking part in beauty contests as she likes meeting other girls, making new friends and finds it boosts her confidence.

Hollie, who studied performing arts at Blackpool and The Fylde College, said: “I couldn’t believe it when they said I had finished in the top five.

“When they called out my name as one of the top five, I was in complete shock and didn’t realise my name had been called – it was only when everyone around started clapping I realised.

“I couldn’t believe it when I won the Blackpool heat either, when they called out my name, I just felt in shock.

“There was a lovely relaxed atmosphere in the competition and all the girls taking part were lovely. It was good fun.

“I’ve done a few competitions now and I really enjoy them.

“The Grand Finale was brilliant.”

The competition involved four rounds – including a competitive catwalk “strut off”, where models held a kind of duel on the runway.

Paul Davies, general manager of Grosvenor G Casino Coventry, where the grand final took place, said: “The atmosphere on the grand final night was electric.

“With the girls hitting the runway and the audience reaction, it was a great example of the fantastic entertainment we showcase here.”