A HALSTEAD teenager will be representing the town, and the rest of East Anglia, when she competes in the Miss Teen Great Britain finals this weekend. 

Annie Barter, 17, of Bentall Close, turned to pageantry in an attempt to boost her confidence, and is now hoping to claim the crown in Blackpool after already being awarded Miss Teen East Anglia 2016/17. 

The Colchester Institute student overcame years of torment and bullying through pageant competitions, and is hoping this first competition won't be her last. 

Annie said: "I am so excited, it has come around so quick. 

"It is an absolutely huge event and it will just be a great experience to be involved in. 

"It hasn't quite sunk in yet, and it probably wont until I get there and get on the stage.

"Across the weekend we get to do photoshoots, a beauty queen challenge, go to a pyjama diva party and then have the big show at the end, really it sounds like one big girly sleepover.

"Everyone has asked me if I will win, but really I am just happy to be there and be a finalist.

"I would love to compete regularly, a lot of the girls say you catch a pageant bug so I can see that happening to me."

The competition consists of four different rounds – fashion, swimwear, evening and an interview with the judges, with the winners then flying to Orlando in Florida for the international pageant.

Annie was severely bullied from a young age, physically, mentally and racially. 

During her time at school, Annie suffered with eating problems and mental health issues. 

But now she feels like she has bounced back, and believes the confidence she has gained from taking part in beauty pageants is the driving force behind her recovery. 

Annie added: "I honestly would recommend it to anyone.

"I see so many teens who are self concious and it would give them a huge confidence boost just like it has to me. 

"The competition is so much more than looks, it is all about personality really.

"I have already become close friends with five of the girls, and everyone is so nice and caring.

"Being in that environment is really great for you self belief. 

"There are so many stereotypes about beauty pageants but so far none of them seem to be true.

"Everyone is so positive."