Secretary's bid to be swimsuit star

The 29-year-old from Grimsargh will be one of 20 North West women competing for the title by running in the Manchester heat tomorrow (Thursday). Should she make the final three, she will be entered into September’s final, and in with a chance of winning £1,000 and becoming the next swimwear modelling star.

Sarah said she has entered “to simply gain more confidence in myself”. But she also wants to inspire other women.

She said her message was: “Believe in yourself, don’t let others bring you down and taking risks can be worth while.”

The former Westholme pupil heard about the competition through her best friend who knows the organiser, and said she has been preparing for the heat by overcoming eating chocolate for every meal. She added: “I’ve been living a health lifestyle, keeping my body in shape in the gym and trying my best to clean eat.”

She added: “Winning would give me the confidence and belief I can step out of my comfort zone and give me a huge sense of achievement. I’d also feel I’ve done myself, family and friends proud.”

Sarah believes a unique talent will help set her apart. She said: “I can hold my breath under water for a ridiculous amount of time and I have never been beaten in an underwater race. This is a swimsuit competition after all.”

Miss Swimsuit UK founder Verena Twigg said: “This competition is all about empowering women to be their boldest, most beautiful and confident self.

“Our competition celebrates women who enjoy healthy and active lifestyles.

“The process will be tough, but the opportunities that await the winner are life changing.”

Confirmed celebrity Judges and guests include Yorkshire singer- songwriter and mixed martial artist Ellis Lacy, MTV’s Ex On The Beachstars Rogan O’Conner, Jemma Lucy, Charlotte Dawson, Helen Briggs, Chet Johnson, and Zara Lena Jackson.