A RECEPTIONIST is urging people to give her their vote in the hope she can book her place the finals of a national beauty pageant.

Emma Luke needs about 50 votes to make the top five - a Miss England qualifying round.

If the 20-year-old, from Darlington, does make the top five, she will be interviewed by a judging panel who will decide which girl will become a Miss England finalist.

Miss Luke, who is head receptionist and conference and banqueting organiser at the Scotch Corner Hotel, in North Yorkshire, has been a finalist at Miss Durham for the past two years.

She said: "At the moment, I am 7th. I need about 50 more votes to make the top five. I am nervous and excited."

Miss Luke, who is from Cockerton, said she entered pageants because she found it fun. I do it purely for the enjoyment of it. It is a really good laugh. I'll just enjoy it and take it from there."

She added that she thought the controversy surrounding 18-year-old Verity Walker's win was motivated by disappointment.

She said: "I believe it is just sour grapes of disappointed contestants and parents. Good luck to Verity."

Voting finishes at 9pm tonight. To vote for Emma, text Emma Luke to 84205 or call 0901-656-1500 and type in the number 10.