A STUDENT from Eastleigh will be competing to represent Great Britain in the Miss Universe contest.

24 year old Romy Simpkins will be one of 34 finalists all vying for the title of Miss Universe GB at the pageant in Newport, South Wales this July, with going on to represent Great Britain in the Miss Universe competition America.

The former Brokenhurst College student previously entered the competition 6 years ago and hopes that this time she will take home the title.

Originally from Bournemouth, Romy is currently studying to be a counsellor at Eastleigh College and hopes to run her own practise specialising in treating those suffering with Eating Disorders.

Romy who is an ambassador for mental health charity MIND, having raised more than £5,000 for them in the last two years said that she wants to help to end the the stigma surrounding mental health especially for young people and those in the work place.

Romy said: "Mental Health is personal to me as I suffered with a an Eating Disorder as a teenager. However, I got the most amazing support and now I feel inspired to help others.

"Pageants have given me a sense of huge purpose by stepping out my comfort zone, pushing me to challenging myself and to make me a strong sense of self-belief. I will continue to encourage others to look after themselves, physically and mentally by having a positive mind and outlook on life. "

The former Miss United Kingdom also works as a Client Experience Manager for an Online Mental Health Service in Southampton. supporting people via online therapy sessions.

" I enjoy being involved in community projects and look forward to reaching out to larger audiences to promote my campaign for Miss Universe Great Britain.

"I will be fundraising for A-Sisterhood an organisation that empowers, supports and protects women worldwide."

Miss Universe, famously owned by US president Donald Trump, is one of the oldest pageants in the world. Starting in the United States in the 1950’s the competition for 18-27 year olds is one of the most coveted pageants in the world. Contestants from 80 countries compete for the title of Miss Universe each year.