While the atmosphere was electric and the hopes and dreams of sixteen radiant women captivated the judges' attention, a far less glamorous drama was unfolding behind the scenes. 

On that fateful evening of April 10, 1969, within the walls of the Top Rank Suite, a cunning thief chose the most opportune moment to slink into the contestants' changing rooms, their eyes set on ill-gotten gains.

One of the bright stars of the evening was Margaret Ann Brown, a 23-year-old telephonist hailing from Millbrook. She stood shoulder to shoulder with fifteen other hopefuls, each vying for the coveted title in the heart of Southampton. 

Anticipation hung in the air along with a blend of nervous excitement and the faint scent of hairspray and perfume.

When her name was announced as the winner of the regional heat, a wave of euphoria washed over Margaret. She was on cloud nine. 

This wasn't just a local victory, it was a golden ticket and an opportunity to advance to the grand final in the famed seaside resort of Morecambe. The glittering prospect of winning a staggering £6,900 in cash and prizes – a truly princely sum for the time – danced before her eyes.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Margaret struggled to find the words to express her joy. 

"I just don't know what to say," she stammered, her voice a mixture of disbelief and delight, as reporters gathered around. "I've been in quite a few beauty contests, you know, but I never actually won before. Oh, I feel like kissing you all!" 

Her infectious happiness was palpable.

However, the sweet taste of victory was cruelly and abruptly soured. 

Just as Margaret was basking in the glow of her win, crowned and celebrated, whispers of a transgression began to circulate. 
 

The joyous cheers and applause that filled the Top Rank Suite were oblivious to the quiet intrusion that had occurred.

A thief, moving with stealth and precision, had managed to breach the sanctity of the dressing rooms. While the contestants were on stage, charming the audience and judges, this opportunistic individual had rifled through their belongings. 

It was discovered that Margaret's purse had been targeted. 

The audacious pilferer had made off with a 10s note – a significant loss from a young working woman's purse in 1969.

The irony was not lost on a crestfallen Margaret. 

Recounting the incident to the Echo shortly after the shocking discovery, she revealed the meagre remnants of the thief's intrusion: "Four pennies and an expensive bottle of perfume were left in my bag." 

The thief had been selective, snatching the ready cash but, perhaps in their haste or by some strange quirk, leaving behind the fragrance and a few stray coins.