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Last year's winner, Verity Walker

TWENTY contestants will take centre stage this weekend during the fifth annual Miss Durham competition.

The event, at Sedgefield Racecourse, was previously held during race nights, but organisers are staging a standalone event for the first time this year.

Four years ago, the County Durham racecourse was the first in Britain to stage a Miss England heat - the qualifier for Miss World.

Sedgefield Racecourse's general manager, Jill Williamson, said their winner will have to prove herself on more than just good looks.

She said: "This year's high profile non-racing event will focus entirely on the entrants' intelligence, communication skills and overall presentation to enable Miss Durham to compete confidently at the Miss England final."

Last year's winner, Verity Walker, 19, from Darlington, will be on hand to pass on the title.

Miss Walker's win was criticised because she was a late addition to the usual 20 finalists.

Miss Walker was added to the bill when another girl fell ill, but was allowed to stay when the girl regained her health.

She said: "Last year was an amazing experience and getting to take part in Miss England was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"Even so, I think the contestants should have fun and I don't think people should take themselves too seriously."

Miss Durham 2008 will begin with three catwalk-style themed rounds, including the traditional evening wear round.

The final round will be an interview, in which each contestant will be asked short questions.

The winner will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Miss England final - including a dress from Mao Couture, the creator of the 2007 Miss World wardrobe - among other prizes.

It will be compered by Galaxy Radio's Sally Hudson and Simon Robertson, and feature live music and DJs.

Doors open at 7pm on Saturday and the event runs until 12.30am.

Tickets, costing £16, include a drink and two-course buffet.

For information, visit sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk or phone 01740-621925.

4:03am Wednesday 7th May 2008

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