JOINING the nation's flourishing flock of fair-haired females has seen Tracey Rea, from York, scoop a top prize.

But gentlemen, who are said to prefer blondes, should take care as sports coach Tracey is also a part-time bouncer.

The 21-year-old staved off fierce competition from hundreds of applicants to become one of 12 winners in the Nice 'n' Easy Britain Goes Blonde competition, run in conjunction with Now Magazine.

She won a luxury trip to London, a complete makeover and dinner at top-notch eaterie Quaglino's where she met blonde celebrities actress Emily Lloyd and chef Amanda Grant.

Tracey, who is studying for a degree in Physical Education and Psychology at the College of Ripon and York St John, said: "Cutting my hair short was something I had always wanted to do but because I work and study with so many men I often get mistaken for one of the lads. My new blonde colour makes me look and feel more glamorous."

PICTURE: Tracey before the change of hair colour