EIGHTEEN of the region’s best-looking girls and young women will compete next weekend to be crowned Miss Durham.

The event, now in its sixth year, takes place at Sedgefield Racecourse, next Saturday.

About 80 contestants who first entered have been whittled down to 18 finalists who will be scrutinised by a panel of judges on the night.

The overall winner will receive an all-expenses paid trip to take part in the Miss England contest, in London, on July 19 and 20, and several other prizes are available.

Sarah Thewlis, commercial executive for Sedgefield Racecourse, said: “As always, we have got some extremely attractive and classy ladies taking part in the competition.

“This year there will be a question-and-answer session so the girls can show how intelligent they are, too.

“On the eve of the event, the girls will be able to get in a bit of practice, because they are modelling in a fashion show during a ladies’ night at the racecourse.”

The final is being compered by Wayne Allen, from TFM Radio, and features three catwalk rounds, as well as the question-and-answer session.

Contestants dress in evening wear for one round, but pick their own outfits for the other two rounds which are on the theme of “a day at the races”

and “a day in the park”.

Among the contestants is an undergraduate chemical engineering student, a horseriding instructor, a businesswoman and an actress.

Mrs Thewlis said: “The competition has always been about more than just looks and I think this just goes to prove it.”

Applicants must be aged between 17 and 24, cannot be married or have children, and must not have posed for topless or nude photographs.

Last year’s event was won by Laura Azevedo, a 20-year-old half-Brazilian business administrator from Hartlepool.

Doors open at 6pm and tickets, including a two-course buffet and disco, cost £20 per person. For booking and further information, call 01740-621925.