FORGET Milan, Paris and Rio - Harrogate has some of the world's most beautiful women.

That is the verdict of Premier Model Management, which represents the likes of Naomi Campbell and Claudia Schiffer.

Beauty-spotters from the firm will be scouring Harrogate Bar Med every Wednesday this month, starting tonight, as part of its national search for a top model.

Model scout Amma Amihyia said: "I'm really looking forward to scouting in Harrogate. When we have been before we've seen some beautiful girls - in fact some of the best-looking in the country."

Meanwhile, TV bosses today launched a search for the UK's ideal woman to star in Simon Cowell's new dating show.

Creators of ITV1's forthcoming series, Cupid, are holding auditions around the UK to find someone "looking for love, money and adventure".

In the show, which will be filmed later this year, several men will battle to win her affections.

A spokeswoman for programme maker Thames TV said: "She must be fun, sassy, sexy, smart, friendly and caring.

"She's beautiful to everyone who knows her. Men love her and girls want to be her friend. She could have loved and lost in the past and is possibly divorced."

The woman - who should be between 21 and 35 - must also be "warm, attractive and special".

"She is ready to meet her ideal man and fall in love," added the spokeswoman.

Cowell - known for his withering put-downs as a Pop Idol judge - said: "Singing in front of a judging panel is scary, but asking a gorgeous girl out is quite simply terrifying.

"Cupid will reflect real life and the awfulness of having to chat up girls."

Auditions will be held in Glasgow on April 1 and 2, Newcastle on April 3, Manchester on April 8 and 9 and in London on April 15 and 16.

Application forms and further details of the auditions can be obtained by e-mailing cupid@thamestv.co.uk or phoning 020 7691 6666.end

Updated: 11:06 Wednesday, March 05, 2003