A NAIL technician is hoping to impress the judges when she takes part in a beauty pageant next month.

Ashleigh Hesketh Hall, who has competed in similar contests, such as Miss England, will travel to London on September 10 for the weekend-long Face of the UK and Universe event.

The 28-year-old, of Oakham Close, Brandlesholme, will be representing Manchester in the 'Miss' category of the pageant.

As well as a round where contestants walk out on stage in ball gowns, there will be an interview heat and a section of the show where contestants talk about their efforts to raise cash for charity.

Ashleigh has previously supported Cancer Research UK and Bury Hospice.

The keen horse rider and showjumper said: "I'm really looking forward to travelling to the capital and doing my best to represent Bury and Manchester.

"It's a really exciting competition with lots of different elements and there is a chance for me to impress the judges."

Ashleigh is urging our readers to get behind her quest for success by voting for her, as contests get extra points for receiving online support.

To vote, go to facebook.com/FaceOFUKandUniverse and 'like' Ashleigh's picture. Voting closes on September 8.

Earlier this year, Ashleigh told The Bury Times how she had turned her life around since being given a suspended prison sentence after admitting to Bury magistrates that she harassed a man.

She thanked friends, family and colleagues for helping her get things back on track and said she is pleased to be returning to beauty pageants.

"It is exciting and an opportunity to meet lots of new people at the contest," added Ashleigh.