BEAUTY hopeful Nicky Bruce is looking to the people of Suffolk and Essex to help her achieve one of her greatest dreams.

Craig Robinson

BEAUTY hopeful Nicky Bruce is looking to the people of Suffolk and Essex to help her achieve one of her greatest dreams.

The 22-year-old, who was born and bred in Ipswich but is currently living with her mother in Colchester, is hoping to secure a place in the semi-final of Miss England 2009.

She was entered for the competition after being spotted at last year's Clothes Show event in Birmingham by modelling studio Fresh.

The former Gusford Primary and Chantry High School pupil is now battling it out with 28 others who were also chosen for a place in the final stages of Miss England.

Miss Bruce said: “I went to the Clothes Show in Birmingham in December and was approached by the Fresh photographic team.

“They said I should enter and I filled out a form. I didn't think too much more about it but two weeks later I had a letter asking if I'd come for a photo shoot, which I did in January.

“I really enjoyed the experience. If the opportunity came up to do modelling full time I wouldn't say no.”

The girls have a month to campaign in the areas they live for public support and Miss Bruce - who coaches youngsters at Pipers Vale Gymnastics Club in Ipswich - is hoping she can count on local votes.

“I have lived in Ipswich all my life and love the town,” she said. “All my friends are here. In fact I'm moving back next week. I can't wait.

“I used to compete in gymnastics for Pipers Vale but I stopped when I was 17. However, I now coach there three times a week, which is great fun. I really love it and there are a lot of talented youngsters.”

Voting closes on February 27 and the twelve highest scoring girls will go before a panel of judges who will each have their votes from one to 12.

Should the girl voted by the public not be voted in first place by the judges she will automatically receive entry to the Miss Popularity round of the contest and compete again in May.

For more details on how to vote for Miss Bruce, visit www.missengland.info/regionals/photoheat5.