A GIRL from Plumley has reached the finals of Miss Cheshire.

Jessica Gabbott is one of 24 girls out of around 200 who could now win the annual competition, on June 5, and she is urging Guardian readers to support her.

On the day, the 19-year-old will have the daunting task of being interviewed by the judges in front of hundreds at Daneside Theatre, in Congleton.

Jessica, of Maltkiln Road, said: “I’ll be nervous speaking in front of everyone but I’m pretty excited as well as it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“It’s nice that everyone’s supported me.”

The Miss Cheshire competition, which is part of Miss England, is more than a beauty pageant as the organisers are looking for an ambassador for the area.

Jessica, who attended Lower Peover Primary School and Holmes Chapel Comprehensive, hopes to use the status of the post to promote charity work.

The hostess, who works in Gusto, in King Street, had to raise £250 for children’s charity The Variety Club as part of her entry into the competition.

Jessica helped build a nursery in Uganda in January and when she was 16 she lived with a tribe in Equador to help build toilet facilities.

She added: “I’ve got a passion for the charity side of it and I’m keen to organise bigger events.”

Judges are looking for candidates who have looks, confidence, intelligence and charisma and Miss Cheshire could have the chance to become Miss England.

The current Miss England is Lance Corporal Katrina Hodge, a soldier decorated for bravery in Iraq.

Jessica, a member of Cheshire Youth Orchestra who will study music at the University of Bath, in September, said: “It’s quite flattering that I’ve got this far.

“I’m looking forward to it but I don’t know what to expect. As a local girl, it’s nice to represent Knutsford in the Miss Cheshire competition. It means a lot to me.”

To vote for Jessica text ‘Cheshire 05 Jessica G’ to 84205 or call 0901 656 1589 and input 05 when prompted.

All votes cost 60p plus standard network charge and must be cast before the end of June 4.