A WIRRAL teenager has been crowned the third ever Miss Teen Africa UK.

Amriah Akpan, 17, from Moreton fought off ten other contestants to lead the catwalk at the grand finale of the beauty pageant at Stratford Town Hall.

The aspiring Law student represented Nigeria and put on a show with a dance display in traditional dress and a heartfelt speech about her hopes of empowering young women in UK and Africa.

The evening comprised a number of catwalk stages including elegant ball gown, cultural and talent displays as well as musical performances from up and coming African artists.

Speaking after she was crowned with the Miss Teen Africa tiara, Amirah said: “I can’t believe it.

“We did it - I want to thank all my fans, those who have supported me and my close family in UK.

“God bless everyone who wished me well.

“I’ll use this opportunity to inspire young girls like myself to have big dreams, to be a beacon of hope to the hopeless and to encourage young women to work tirelessly towards their goals, dreams and ambitions.”

The organisers who aimed to use the event to strengthen the voice and representation of young African women also expressed their gratitude.

The founder of Miss Teen Africa, Yomi Adegoke told the Globe: “This year had a great turn out and it can only get better with the amount of talent and passion we see in our young women today.

“I would also use this opportunity to congratulate Amirah for a job well done.”