Dress designer April comes second in Miss Great Britain finals

April Banbury, of Nash Mills, Hemel Hempstead, returned to the pageant arena this year after taking time away from the catwalk to focus on her career.

She took to the runway in the national beauty contest in memory of her grandmother Dorothy, who died unexpectedly earlier this year, and always encouraged her grand-daughter to have the confidence to chase her dreams.

The 25 year old, who got through to the finals on a wild card vote, unexpectedly went on to claim second place at the finals on Friday in Leicester.

April said: “Being in Miss GB has truly been one of the best experiences of my life. I didn’t even expect to make it to the top 15, then when I ended up coming second I was completely overwhelmed.

“It meant the world after spending years struggling with self-confidence I now feel so proud to say I’ve overcome this.

“I own my own dress making service and I came second in one of the most prestigious beauty pageants against over 50 beautiful girls.

“I now hope my journey can inspire others into following their dreams. I believe nothing is impossible.”