WEYMOUTH beauty queen Elysia Munday has taken inspiration from her hometown in a quest to wear local at a forthcoming pageant.

The 23-year-old, who has made it through to the finals of the international beauty pageant Face of the World at Disneyland Paris, decided on a seaside-theme for one of her dresses.

Contestants have to parade in a number of different outfits and Elysia decided to make her own dress using fishing nets, shells and seaweed for the ‘national wear’ dress.

Face of the World differs from other pageants in that it focuses on ‘the beauty within’ and raises money to support brain injury charity Headway. Entrants have to fundraise and Elysia is organising a Halloween-themed fashion show on Sunday, October 26 to aid the effort.

The day after she will head to Folkestone, Kent to take part in the six-day competition, which moves to France later in the week. The mum-of-one said: “I’m really excited to be representing the south of England alongside girls from all around the world.

“I’ve just finished making my seaside-inspired dress for the national wear round and I’m really pleased with how it’s turned out. I’ve used things encompassing the seaside atmosphere, all created by hand.

“To be honest I’m surprised it didn’t turn out to be a big mess.”

Elysia reigned as Weymouth Carnival Queen in 2012-13 and went on to join the organising committee.

She does a lot of charity work and says Headway is close to her heart as her sister suffered brain complications as a baby.

She said of the competition: “It’s such an amazing thing to be a part of. All the girls have already started forming strong friendships, helping each other and working together to raise awareness for the supported charities.

“Everyone is always so supportive with all my ventures.

“I really hope I can do the borough proud by representing it in front of people from around the world.”

  • TO support fundraising Elysia is organising a Halloween-themed beauty, hair and fashion show called Drop Dead, Gorgeous featuring ‘spooktacular’ entertainment on Sunday, October 26 at Weymouth Pavilion from 6pm.

The family event includes stalls, a gameshow, variety performances and a raffle with great prizes.

Tickets for Drop Dead, Gorgeous are £7.50 if purchased in advance from the Pavilion or Blondz £10 on the door.