THIS beauty queen hopes to be crowned Miss England after scooping the public vote at the Miss York finals.

Victoria Newton, who claimed the Miss Popularity title at the annual event and also secured a top ten place in the final rundown, will now go on to compete in the Miss England semi-finals later this month.

The 22-year-old, from Helperby, near Easingwold, will be up against 54 rivals and said the opportunity will provide the chance to boost her work for Macmillan Cancer Support, where she is a member of the fund- raising team.

Victoria was inspired to become involved with the charity by her 15-year-old brother Tom’s successful battle against cancer when he was only two-years-old. She said she was “overwhelmed by the fantastic support network” that backed her during her Miss York campaign.

She said: “I’m just so thankful to everyone who has stood by me.

“I’m excited and nervous for the Miss England semi-finals. It will be a fun day, but with a lot to prepare for.”

At the event she plans to perform a two-minute soliloquy from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Nights Dream. Victoria will also model sportswear, have an interview with the judges, and create an eco-outfit from recycled leaflets.”

Once again there will be a two-week public vote, throughout which Victoria will be campaigning to maintain her “fantastic support”.

To vote for Victoria text 33Victoria to 84205, or to vote from a landline, dial 0901 6561500 and enter 33 when prompted. “This whole experience has been fantastic,” said Victoria.

“I’ve met great people and thoroughly love every second.”

The Miss England semi-finals will be staged on June 14 at Champneys Springs, in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire.