Nineteen-year-old Ciara was one of the many Fermanagh girls who entered the popular competition this year, but it was Co Down girl Melissa Elliott who came away with the title of Miss Enniskillen. The 24-year-old specialist recruitment consultant will, along with Ciara move on to the grand final in Belfast’s Europa Hotel in May. The two were chosen by the judging panel, which included:  Joleen Stewart of ACA Model’s, Model’s, former Miss Northern Ireland’s Mary McCartney and Judith Grey,  John Fitzpatrick of Jazzeys, current Miss Northern Ireland, Rebekah Shirley and Claire Kerrigan, representative of Therapie Clinic.

Speaking to the Herald this week former Mount Lourdes Grammar School student Ciara admitted she was “completely shocked” when her name was read out. The Irvinestown girl is studying applied science at South West College and is going on to study sociology at university in September.

Ciara is no stranger to the catwalk, as last year she won the Miss International competition in Belfast and travelled to Marbella for a photoshoot. She has also done some local work at charity events.

Asked why she decided to enter Miss Northern Ireland Ciara said the push came from her auntie, but stated she had no expectations going in.

“Honestly I didn’t. I knew that the competition was going to be tough and I was right. All the girls that entered were stunning and it could have went any way.”

She continued: “I was completely shocked. I had convinced myself that it was going to this other girl, so when my name was called I didn’t know what to say. I wasn’t expecting it.”

Ciara now can’t wait for the final in Belfast and hopes to do her county proud.

“I can’t wait for the final. The whole weekend leading up to the final just sounds so exciting, so I’m very much looking forward to it. It feels like such a great opportunity, and I feel proud to be able to represent Fermanagh in the Therapie Miss Northern Ireland competition.”

Can she win it?

“I think every girl in the final has just an equal chance as me of winning. So, we just have to see how things go on the night. I hope to mainly build my confidence up. I would usually be a shy, quiet person so this experience should help me break out of my shell.”