MODEL STUDENT…Laura Mellor
EXAM-time may be fast-approaching for students in Fermanagh, but for one 18-year-old, something else may be very much on her mind for the next number of weeks.
Laura Mellor, who attends Portora Royal, has made the final of the Miss Northern Ireland 2013 competition.
Having attended a local heat in Sally’s, Omagh, the Belcoo girl was crowned ‘Miss Sally’s and in May will attend the grand final in the Europa Hotel, Belfast, where 26 will battle it out.
“I’ve been following Miss Northern Ireland for a number of years – especially with many local girls having been involved. This year I finally turned 18, and a neighbour, Rosie Boyle, who is a model, asked me to do the competition,” explained Laura this week.
“At the start I wasn’t sure but then I was convinced, and I’m glad I was.”
Laura studies Economics, Business Studies and Moving Image Arts in Portora, and has had a history of modelling since the age of 13, and around two years ago got to the final of Top Model UK, however, didn’t attend due to a family bereavement.
She described the event at Sally’s in Omagh, which she attended recently.
“We’d a catwalk followed by questions. I really thought I’d answered them badly because I was really nervous. The final five were called, we did another catwalk, were asked harder questions, and then the final two were called.
“I actually couldn’t believe it, I sat in shock for ages. I walked up to the stage and was presented with a bouquet of flowers and an envelope with more information. Then a few photos were taken and that was it.
Asked what she thinks of the competition itself, Laura said: “Miss Northern Ireland is more than a beauty pageant, it takes into consideration your personality It’s not all about looks, which is a good thing.
“There are some really exciting opportunities coming up. On Tuesday (yesterday) I am in Banbridge for a photoshoot, and on Wednesday I’m in the Europa for a session where there’ll be more information and previous Miss Northern Irelands will be there too so we can speak to them.
“It’s just an amazing opportunity, I’m so excited,” she added.
This year’s winner will be crowned Miss Northern Ireland 2013, and receive an all expenses paid trip to Miss World in Indonesia. She will also win the use of a Kia car for a year, as well as a host of other glamorous fashion, beauty and fitness prizes.
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