Hoylake fashion writer in the running to represent GB at Miss Universe contest

Vanessa Gainford, 23, said she was "in shock" to have been selected as a finalist - especially as it is the first time she has ever entered such a competition.

Vanessa said she is hoping to make everyone proud 

Now she will compete with around 40 others to receive the prize, which includes a trip to India and a wardrobe of designer clothes.

The final will be a three-day event and includes an empowerment day, a celebration dinner with friends and family and a catwalk show before a panel of judges from the beauty and fashion industry.

Vanessa, who is a fashion and features writer, said: “I am really excited to have been chosen as a finalist for Miss Universe Great Britain this year and will be doing all that I can in the next few months to prepare.

“I have never modelled or competed in pageants before, so I was beyond surprised when I was even selected for the first round, let alone now to stand as a finalist.”

Vanessa sent off an application after being persuaded by friends, never expecting to hear back.

“Miss Universe is one of the biggest pageants in the world and I think it’s going to be a huge adventure as well as a lot of fun," she said.

“I will really be pushing myself out of my comfort zone but great things don't happen in comfort zones.

"Experiences like this are a once in a lifetime thing and I intend to make the most of it."

Vanessa is 'still in shock' to have been selected

As well as getting the opportunity to represent the UK for around three weeks at an exotic overseas location later this year at Miss Universe, the winner will also visit India to support the Sheroes Hangout initiative which helps women who have been the victim of acid attacks.

Vanesa said: “I am still in shock, a lot of the girls are signed to modelling agencies or have experience.

“I am certainly going to give it my all, I think it would be nice for someone with no experience to win.”

Although there are more than four months to go until the pageant, the hard work has already begun with Vanessa desperately trying to find a sponsor before May to continue in the competition.

She will also be tasked with a series of challenges and fundraising for "Strongbones" – a charity which helps children from all over the UK with diseases of the bone.

Despite the reputation pageants usually have regarding fighting and bitterness among contestants, Vanessa said all the girls have been really welcoming.

“We are all in a Facebook group and we have all bonded really well, if anyone has a question it is really helpful.”

The 2016 Miss Universe Great Britain will take place in South Wales in July.

The winner will then compete in the international Miss Universe contest..

Vanessa’s family have all been supportive of her - she even dragged her younger brother with her to the interviews.

She added: “I didn't want to go on my own so I made my little brother come to the interviews with me, he was really pleased when I got a call back.

“My dad couldn’t believe it at first but was happy when it sunk in." 

"I usually get really nervous but I am hoping to overcome my nerves and make everyone proud.”