Looking good for beauty pageant

THE island's beauties are being encouraged to enter this year's Miss Alderney contest, which takes place tomorrow.

The event is open to unmarried girls aged 17 and over.

All contestants must be in the island during Alderney Week (31 July-8 August) and be willing to take part in numerous festival events.

Great prizes will be presented to the winner and her two maids of honour. Entrants should turn up at the Anne French Room between 8.30pm and 9pm for cocktails and an informal chat with the hosts.

Organiser Ilona Soane-Sands said: 'The girls should dress to impress but remember that while looks are important, so is an outgoing, fun-loving personality.'

Popular singer and comedian Richard Digance will help judge the event, as he will still be in the island following his performances at the Georgian House.

Countdown regular Richard joked that this year's event had been fixed in favour of Alderney Week organiser Ronnie Cairnduff.

'It's already been rigged and Ronnie will win.

'Thinking about it, I'd like the daughter of the richest man in the island to win, through fair means or foul.'

Richard said it would be the first beauty pageant he'd ever attended.

'I've never judged a beauty contest in my life. I haven't a clue what happens – I'm a hippy. I will just feel happy to be having a beer while relaxing in the company of some attractive women, all of whom will be slobbering over me. Well, of course not.'

After the winner and her maids are named, popular local band Howling at the Wind will play in the Island Hall.

Entry will be free to Miss Alderney contestants but £5 for everyone else.

Visit www.alderneyweek.net for further information on the event.