Fairytale night for long-running pageant

Organisers of the 2016 Miss Blackpool contest have hailed the event another big success, after the grand final of the annual beauty pageant took place at Viva Showbar, on Church Street, Blackpool.

This year’s event saw a Disney themed opening scene, complete with choreographed dance routine by Claire Mcdowall of Angels Elite, and Disney princess fancy dress costumes, sponsored by Mega Fancy Dress.

There was also entertainment from table magician Darren Robinson, along with Angels Elite Kidz – youngsters ranging in age from eight to 16 performed two dance routines.

And guitarist/vocalist Johnny Roxx also performed for the watching crowd on his birthday.

The first round of the Miss Blackpool grand final saw the girls strut their stuff on the catwalk in beachwear and swimwear, followed by a workwear themed catwalk routine, sponsored by Obas.

Then the girls changed into their glamorous evening wear, and introduced themselves to the audience and judges.

Beth Dust, 24, of Thornton, impressed the judges to scoop the crown of Miss Blackpool 2016.

In second place was Shannon Wright, aged 19, of Preesall and in third place Leah Hurst, aged 18, of Thornton.

A raffle was held in support of Blackpool Polar Bears, who promote multi-disability swimming in the community.

Karen Jean Cookson, of Blackpool-based Angels Elite modelling agency – which organised the contest – said: “It was an amazing night. We had such a fabulous bunch of contestants, I felt really proud seeing how they all help each other.

“They didn’t stop rehearsing from 9am until 5pm, non-stop, to put on a professional show for friends and family.

“It was lovely to see past winners Hollie Robinson and Joanna Johnson at rehearsals helping the new contestants – and so nice to see an age range from age five to 90 in the audience, supporting Miss Blackpool.

“Every one of the contestants was so professional. Although they were nervous, to see their confidence on-stage was such an amazing feeling.

“We were very lucky to have bridal and evening wear designer Diane Harbridge judging, with Norman Tenry from Obas, Claire Mcdowall and Paul Stevens, from Viva.

“The evening was magical, hosted by our talented comperes Hollie Robinson and Ian Tolley.

“We have to say thank you to Viva for really making the competition stage sparkle, the lighting was spectacular. The competition was photographed and filmed and pictures and DVDs can be obtained through us at Angels Elite.

“And of course all our helpers, who we couldn’t do it without.

“I’m so proud of Beth, she will make an amazing Miss Blackpool, following on from our Miss Blackpool 2015 Jessica Bradder, who has been lovely.”

To book appearances for the new Miss Blackpool, call for Angels Elite on (01253) 820226.