THE countdown has begun to find the face of Miss Vale Royal for the next year.

As the reign of the current Miss Vale Royal comes to an end, the search is getting under way to find her successor.

Dee Cooke, organiser of the annual competition, is appealing for the fair of face and full of grace to consider entering the prestigious competition.

Contestants stand to win a variety of top prizes, as well as a chance of taking the coveted title.

And as well as the honour of representing the borough at major functions, the winner could also see a career in the limelight blossom as a result of the role.

All hopefuls have to do is complete the form, attach a short statement about their hobbies and interests and include a recent photograph and send it into the Guardian.

Titles up for grabs include Miss Vale Royal 2003, Miss Leisure World and Miss Vale Royal's Escort.

Contestants must be aged between 18 and 30 and live or work in the Vale Royal area and entries should be sent to Miss Vale Royal, c/o Northwich Guardian, 15 Market Street, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5DT.

The judging will take place at Winnington Park Recreation Club on Saturday, November 1.

Among the prizes on offer are a model training course and photo session, one nights stay for two at the Quality Hotel, a session with a professional photographer, a cut and colour manicure and two months membership at LA Fitness.

Advanced tickets, priced £5, are available from the club and all proceeds from the event will go to local charities.

Photographs supplied with entries may be used in forthcoming editions of the Guardian.

jsawyer@guardiangrp.co.uk