Student crowned Miss Hull And District

CLUTCHING a huge bouquet of flowers and proudly wearing the Miss Hull And District crown, Hannah Rowe looked every inch the beauty queen.

The 18-year-old Bridlington student was named winner at the final and will now go forward and represent the city at the semi-finals of Miss England.

The final took place last night at the Royal Hotel in Ferensway, city centre.

In total, 26 finalists fought for the title of Miss Hull And District.

The girls all took part in an eco-round, which saw them design a piece of eco-clothing, as well as an evening-dress round.

Hannah, who will now be automatically entered into the semi- final of Miss England, said: "It was absolutely amazing.

"When my name was read out, I cried my eyes out backstage.

"It has not yet sunk in that I am going to the semi-final of Miss England."

Hannah, who studies business and accounting at Beverley College, was encouraged to enter the pageant by her boyfriend after having a portfolio done.

She said: "He was pushing me to do something with my portfolio and we were looking on the Internet and came across this.

"I entered and then just kept getting through."

Hannah will now have to think about what talent to perform for the judges at the Miss England contest, as well as seeking out a new evening gown.

Jacqueline Lythe, 22, of Patrington, was named as first runner-up. The final year Spanish and English student said: "I'm ecstatic, really happy.

"The day was a bit stressful, as we had a lot of routines to learn, but everyone has been really lovely. It was great."

Jacqueline will stand in for Miss Hull should she not be able to make any of her commitments.

Second runner-up was Dionne Colleen Finn, 23, of Anlaby.

She said: "It has been a great day.

"There were seven beautiful finalists waiting with me when our names were being read out and it could have been any one of us."

Judging the competition was Miss England 2008 Laura Coleman, prize sponsor and photographer Ron Disney, regional organiser Vivienne Lee, Miss Hull 1982 Roslyn Dearing and director of Bandzmedia Ltd Jude Bumby.