WHILE Miss Wales hopeful Vicky Prior failed to take the top title, she has been officially crowned Miss Pembrokeshire, and plans to spend her year supporting local charities.

Pembroke child care support worker Vicky, 19, is represented Pembrokeshire in the Miss Wales finals, held in Newport on April 8.

Vicky said: “My future will always be looking after children as I love it so much, but doing pageantry and modelling has always been something I have wanted to do since a young age. In my spare time I love going to the gym, my main sport is kick boxing, it helps me build up my confidence more and more and it's a fun and friendly atmosphere.

“I love talking to the children in work about my Miss Wales journey and all the fun charity events that the Miss Wales finalists do, I hope to inspire and empower them and I want them to look at me as a role model, and encourage them to be confident and make them believe anything is possible. Due to this experience I have been able to grow as an individual, and I can definitely say I have met friends for life.”

In the run-up to the final, Vicky, one of 32 finalists, had been tasked with fundraising for Beauty With A Purpose, the Miss World charity which helps disadvantaged children worldwide.

The final– at The Riverfront in Newport and sponsored by Giovanni’s Restaurants - involved three appearances on the stage including the patriotic Welshwear opener; a red dress catwalk; and the traditional evening wear parade. All finalists also had one-to-one interviews with the panel of seven judges.

Vicky is now hoping to use her new title to benefit the county: “I am the new Miss Pembrokeshire 2017, I am so happy and overwhelmed. I if anyone is interested I would love to attend as many events in Pembrokeshire and support any local charities.”

Any charities or groups wishing to contact Vicky can do so by email: vickyprior08@hotmail.com