A BELLE from Brantham is set to compete against beauties from across the country at a prestigious pageant.

Elizabeth Dudman, 17, was crowned as the winner of the Miss Suffolk International contest and will now take part in the UK Power Pageant in Preston, Lincolnshire, in July.

The former East Bergholt High School student hopes to go to university to study midwifery, but in the meantime has her sights set on raising cash for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Miss Dudman said: “I hope to use this role to bring awareness to important charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support.

“A big part of the competition is fundraising and using your title to promote good works.

“I lost my aunt Teresa Evans and grandfather Peter Dudman to cancer so want to raise funds for Macmillan.

“It is such an important charity and helps families suffering from this horrific disease.”

As part of the competition, Miss Dudman will be hosting a fundraising music event in aid of the charity at Brantham Social Club.

“I am a little nervous as it’s my first time in a beauty pageant,” added Elizabeth.

“The other girls in the finals have previous experience or have done modelling, but it is all new to me. I will have to take part in a two day event, including interviews with the judges, they’ll be a swimsuit event and a ball gown event.

“It’s a great opportunity and There’s a once in a lifetime chance to work in Japan and South Africa.”

The fundraising event will take place on April 16 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8 on the door.