A Hextable beauty therapist has set her sights on becoming the next Miss Kent, and is hoping a Miss England crown will follow.

Louise Cox, of Claremont Road, is up against 18 other hopefuls in the competition, and has been busy raising money for a number of charities with everything from a 10k run to organising a big afternoon tea.

One of those charities is Cancer Research UK, a cause that particularly resonates with the 24-year-old after her mother, Sue, was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 59 last year.

She told News Shopper: "My mum was diagnosed  last year and it was by chance they found out that she had breast cancer as she didn't have any symptoms. 

"Luckily she has made a full recovery and is now helping me to organise the afternoon tea in order to raise money for the unit that helped her. 

"It is a cause very close to my heart."

Louise is also a regular blood donor who volunteers for the charity Look Good Feel Better, doing the make-up of ladies who have had cancer or who are undergoing treatment. 

She added: "I feel I should use my skill as a beauty therapist to not only help people look good but also feel better, especially when they are poorly."

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Her other chosen charity is Miss England charity Beauty with a Purpose, which helps disadvantaged children across the world. 

She said: "I entered the Miss Kent competition as it is a beauty pageant with a difference.

"As well as a beauty queen to represent England the judges are looking for a kind, charitable female, to raise as much money as possible for charity.

"I am determined to do well in this competition and I feel that because I am young, fit and healthy I should help others that are not so fortunate."

The final is being held at the Spa Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells, on June 21.

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