SHE entered the competition as an afterthought and didn't believe she would get through the first round.

But now this stunning student from Beverley has been crowned Miss Hull And District 2010.

Abbie Bullyment took the title after a glittering live finale at the Country Park Inn in Hessle.

The 18-year-old battled her way through rounds including evening wear and an interview and will now compete in the semi-finals of Miss England.

Abbie, who works as a chef and waitress at Sambuca Bar in Beverley while studying for A levels at East Riding College and Hull College, said she was shocked to be crowned the winner.

She said: "I didn't think I'd get that far, it's still sinking in.

"I saw the competition on the internet and thought I'd give it a go. I've never done anything like this before.

"I enjoyed every minute of it and I made some really good friends."

Abbie, who was sponsored by Bohemia Fashions in the competition, walked away with prizes including a year's modelling contract with Vivienne Edge model management, a £2,000 portfolio from Denton Photography and free hairdressing for a year at Cook Hair.

Contest organiser Emma Bird, who was crowned Miss Hull in 2006, said the student had shone on the night and was a worthy winner.

She said: "Abbie was extremely graceful and ladylike on the stage and she held herself very well.

"She was very confident and able to talk to an audience. She came across really well and was a very deserving winner."

Abbie will now compete in the Miss England semi-finals at Champneys Springs in London on June 14.

Emma said: "I believe Abbie has a really good chance. She's absolutely striking and she reminds me of a young Angelina Jolie or Catherine Zeta Jones."