Today York, tomorrow England, and next year – the world!
That’s the goal of Camilla Garnham, who is vying to be crowned Miss England 2017 – which is the gateway to the Miss World final.
The 20-year-old, who works at Haze Hair on Holgate Road, is now in the semi-final heat 1 – and to progress further she needs your text votes. See the panel on how to support Camilla.
Text MISS SEMI01 to 63333 or call 0901 307 1218 and enter Camilla’s number 01 when instructed
Texts cost 50p and calls 52p
Or help by donating money to Camilla’s Just Giving page
The closing date is noon on Fri Oct 28
After spotting the contest in the summer she sent in information about herself along with some pictures. Then the organisers invited her to audition last month.
“We all had to have our picture taken several times to see who was photogenic and then stand up at the front, tell everyone about ourselves, followed by a catwalk down the runway,” Camilla told YorkMix.
“I feel both excited and nervous about being in Miss England as I’ve never done anything like this before but I enjoy challenging myself and trying new things!”
She was one of only 14 women to make it through to the semi-final heat. To get through to the semi-finals she needs to be one of the three with the most votes, or two selected by the judges.
Another route through is to raise the most money for the Miss England charity, Beauty With A Purpose, which helps disadvantaged children around the world.
‘People care so much’
Camilla, from Bishopthorpe, went to Tadcaster Grammar School before studying hair and beauty at York College.
When not working at Haze Hair she loves socialising with her friends and boyfriend Grant Bavidge, going to the gym and days out exploring.
Camilla said everyone is getting behind her.
My boyfriend is my confidence and is so proud of what I’m doing, he says I’m inspiring and he is helping spread the word of my vote.
My friends in and out of work are all really helping getting people to vote for me and sharing my story on social media.
Hopes and ambitions
To the critics who consider beauty contests like Miss England old fashioned, she said they don’t have to get involved if they’re not interested.
“I will say the contest has changed over the years and it isn’t about parading about in heels and a bikini anymore, it’s focused on raising money and awareness for the charity.”
Camilla said she might consider modelling in the future. “Depending how far I can get in the contest it could potentially be another career to broaden my horizons, I would love the opportunity!
“I have many hopes and ambitions for the future. For example I would love to get further in this contest, I hope to raise more awareness for the charity, I would like to travel the world and also hope to open my own hair and beauty salon one day.”