A BASINGSTOKE beauty has proven she is one of the country’s most charitable women in her bid to be crowned Miss England.

Nicola Ascroft, of Hargreaves Close, Popley claimed the charity queen award at the recent Miss England semi-finals after raising more than £3,000 for the pageant’s official charity – Beauty With A Purpose – which supports disadvantaged children across the globe.

After reaching the semi-final last year and being crowned Miss Basingstoke, the 22-year-old has now gone a step further and is already making preparations for the final.

“I was so happy when I was announced as the winner of the charity award,” Nicola said.

“I really put a lot of effort into my fundraising, constantly organising different events and fundraisers and I think the judges could see how hard I worked for it.”

Nicola saw off 70 other competitors at the semi-final, and will now take part in the three day final which takes place from July 19 – 21, in South Port.

The beauty therapist is stepping into the unknown going into the final, but believes her experiences from last year tied in with thorough preparations has put her in a good position to take the title of Miss England.

She told The Gazette: “There is a lot of work to do going into the final and not a lot of time so preparation is key.

“I have been working hard on my figure skating routine to submit for the final.

“I have been designing my eco outfit as well as organising my next charity event for July 15, which is also my birthday.”

Having raised £3,131.18 for the Miss England charity so far, the 22-year-old hopes to continue to be the competitions top earner all the way through to the final.

“For me the charity award is arguably the most important award as you are helping others,” added Nicola.

“So I think if I continue to organise fundraisers and show the judges how passionate I am then I could be in with a chance.”

To keep up to date with Nicola’s progress in the competition, visit facebook.com/MissBasingstoke2015.