A TEENAGE beauty queen hopes to win a modelling contract as she battles youngsters from across the country to be named Miss Teen 2014.

Olivia Hodgson, 16, of Byers Green, near to Spennymoor, has won through to the national final of the talent competition.

The youngster who reached the last eight stage in the Miss Teen International GB competition last year attends Whitworth Park School Sixth Form, in Spennymoor.

Lorraine Lax, the teenager’s mother, said: “She is looking forward to the final and she is very excited.

“We’re very proud of her and it would be great if she could go of the way.”

The competition has several sub-titles within it such as Miss Publicity and Miss Popularity.

Miss Hodgson has already been named as Miss Popularity after she gained 1,800 votes in support of her bid, more than any other entrant.

The title means that she gains points in her bid to be named Miss Teen 2014. She is now seeking to win Miss Publicity too.

To help boost her publicity Miss Hodgson has organised a coffee morning at Byers Green Village Hall on August 20 between 10am and 4pm with free entry.

There is also a psychic evening at the village hall on August 22 from 7pm. Tickets are £5 in advance and they can be obtained from Mrs Lax on 07719889120.

There are several rounds in the Miss Teen final including a party wear section and one where the entrants must wear something patriotic.

The final of the competition is at the Globe Theatre, in Blackpool, on Sunday, August 31. The prizes include a modelling contract and £1,000.