While most Miss England competitors responded to a James Bond theme by donning posh gowns or tuxedos, Miss Essex took a slightly different approach.

Devon Mayson, of South Woodham Ferrers, spent 40 hours constructing an ice palace from the Die Another Day film as a dress, using CDs, net curtains and old cartons.

Devon, 23, said she wanted the eco-friendly dress to catch the eye at the Miss England finals in Coventry and was awarded eighth place in the eco-round.

Devon, a former Anglo-European School pupil, said her aim as Miss Essex was to challenge stereotypes around "Essex girls".

She said: "There are so many skills involved in the competition, it really changes you as a person.

"I have met so many amazing people and promoted Essex in a positive way."