A TEENAGER is hoping to follow in her mother’s footsteps down the catwalk after winning the chance to compete in a national modelling competition.

Lauren Franklin, 16, of Braintree, said she had dreamed about becoming a model ever since hearing her mother’s stories about her time in the industry.

“My mum was a model when she was 17 and got the chance to travel all over the world,” said Lauren. “It was such an exciting time of her life and I’d love to be able to have stories like that to tell to my own children.”

Lauren, who is studying at Braintree Sixth Form College, is a step closer to having some modelling stories of her own after being selected for the Top Model UK 2011 finals.

“In September I had started writing to modelling agencies, but they said I was too young to work with so they suggested I entered this competition,” said Lauren.

“I love fashion and the fashion industry and I want to experience as many different sides to it as I can. One day I would like to be a fashion journalist, but I would like to have worked as a model first.”

Community-minded Lauren volunteers for a charity in the East of England called Out & About which gives disabled children access to leisure activities.

“I really admire Kate Moss for everything she has achieved, not just in the fashion world but for her charity work as well,” said Lauren. “If I became a successful model then I would like to do more for charity.

“One of the good things about this competition is that there’s a text vote which is raising money for Children with Leukaemia. I would like people to vote for me so I can win the competition and raise lots of money for a great cause.”

The Top Model UK national finalists are selected from 1,000s of entries all vying for the coveted titles and the chance to seize their opportunity on a professional runway. The competition operates a strict ‘no size zero’ and healthy eating and living policy.

To vote for Lauren visit www.topmodeluk.com and follow the link to the 2011 finalists or text ‘model’ followed by a space and then ‘UK 31’ to 88008. All text votes cost �1 plus standard network charges and all profits go to Children with Leukaemia.