AN admin worker is hoping her love for animals and the ocean will help her win the title of Miss Universe Essex.

Charlotte Hamilton-Macy, 24, has been selected as a finalist in the beauty pageant and is hoping to win and go on to represent Essex in the Miss Universe Great Britain contest.

The former Stanway School pupil, who lives in Layer-de-la- Haye, impressed judges at the semi-final when she took to the catwalk in four different rounds, including formal wear and a catwalk parade.

Read the full story in today's Gazette.