MISS Dorset finalists wowed judges at the crowning ceremony in Weymouth.

Friends, family and fans turned up on Saturday evening at Banus nightclub on the seafront to cheer on the 12 finalists.

The girls raised around £2,000 for the charity Miss World’s Beauty with a Purpose Foundation which raises money for disadvantaged children throughout the world.

Annabell Newman was crowned overall Miss Dorset 2012 with contestants from Dorchester and Bridport claiming top fundraiser and most popular.

Annabell, 19, is studying marketing at Bournemouth University, and is also a qualified dance instructor, gymnastics and cheerleader.

She said: “I really wasn’t expecting to win, everyone else did so well and I really didn’t know how it was going to go.

“I was so happy, it was a great surprise and just a really great day.

“Now I’m looking forward to the finals, I can’t believe they’re so soon – it’s scary but also really exciting.”

Annabell, from Bournemouth, will now go on to the grand finals of Miss England, which will be held in June in Leicester.

The top fundraiser Gemma Wall, 22, who lives and works in Dorchester was crowned Beauty With a Purpose after raising £385.

Gemma, who was sponsored by Tiger Lily Occasions, said she got involved because she wanted to try something different. As part of her fundraising she hosted a two-hour zumba party.

The Miss Dorset Popularity award was won by Bridport model Sam-antha Smith who was sponsored by C. T. Motorcycles.

Samantha, 22, said: “I was so proud to win; the popularity award relies on people’s votes so without everyone’s support I never would have done it.

“It was an absolutely amazing day and all the girls were really lovely.”

Becky Chapman from organiser Bellevue Promotions said: “The night was a great success and everyone had a wonderful time.

“The amount of money raised, for just 12 girls, is amazing.

“I have high hopes for Annabell in the final, especially in the sports round because she’s a qualified dance teacher.”

There were originally 28 finalists but Ms Chapman said 16 dropped out before the final ceremony.

The winner was awarded a TV presenters course, a photoshoot with Prime Photography and with Fresh, and also flowers from Fiona Penny.

The stylists to the finalists were SGM hair, flowers were sponsored by Fiona Penny and the entertainment was provided by singer and guitarist Danny Adams.