Miss England 2012: Former Britain’s Next Top Model contestant is crowned winner

A former Britain’s Next Top Model contestant has bounced back from disappointment to be crowned Miss England 2012.

Charlotte Holmes, who took part of the pageant as Miss Devon, shed tears of joy as she was presented with her crown, trophy and Miss England sash at the Athena venue in Leicester.

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Dressed in a sequined blue gown with a thigh-high split, Charlotte was joined on stage by runners-up Anastasia Smith, Miss North Yorkshire, and third place Tamzin Cummings, Sunderland People's Choice.

The 23-year-old faced tough competition from rivals across the UK including Amy Willerton, a recent winner of the TV show Signed By Katie Price.

Other finalists included 23-year-old police officer Alice Nicholas and 21-year-old GB kickboxer Chelsie Griffin.

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The beauty queen, who is originally from Plymouth  takes over from last year's winner Alize Mounter.

Charlotte came fourth in reality TV show Britain's Next Top Model in 2010.

Following her win Charlotte said: “I am so happy to have won the crown and my ambition is to give young girls the message they can achieve.”

The new Miss England will enjoy a host of freebies including a trip to Mauritius and will go on to represent England at the Miss World final in August.
 
“Charlotte is going to be a fantastic Miss England, she is a very beautiful girl with a vibrant personality and a passion for life and will be an amazing ambassador for England,” said Angie Beasley, managing director of Miss England.