A pop singer has earned a place in the Miss England beauty pageant after coming first in a county-wide competition.

Natalie Pickthall came third in the Miss Essex earlier this month after entering her first ever beauty pageant at the age of 25.

She then entered the Miss Brainy Beauty contest in Buckinghamshire and came first, meaning she now has a shot at the national title.

She said: “It was so much fun, the girls are so great. I've made loads of new friends “I'll be very interested in taking part in Miss England, as long as my singing schedule lets me.

“Hopefully there's no clashes! It's fun though juggling the two.”

Miss Pickthall, who lives in Felsted and used to work in Braintree, sings in girl group IV Rox.