ORGANISERS of this year’s Miss York competition plan to go scouting for girls the day before auditions are held later this month in a bid to encourage more entrants.

Miss England boss Angie Beasley, who has taken charge of the 2010 York contest following the death of former organiser Vivienne Lee last December, says entries are gradually coming in, but she still needs more.

She said the auditions would take place on Sunday, April 25, at the Royal York Hotel, and a Miss England team was now planning to go round the city centre during the previous day and evening to encourage last minute entries.

“We are sure there are lots more girls who will enter,” she said.

Angie revealed that a maximum of two girls were being selected to be fast-tracked through to the final after being unable to attend the audition because of work commitments. The first was talented York dancer and singer Eilish Coady, 19, who had been performing since the age of four. Eilish, who trained at the Bird Musical Theatre College in London, said: “I am so excited to be a finalist. I have had been interested in the event for a number of years and the good charity work done by the Miss York competition.”

Angie said the search was on to find the most beautiful and talented girl in the land and she felt Eilish fitted the criteria perfectly. “Now she will have to impress the judges at the final round, which takes place on June 27.”

The winner will receive direct entry through to the finals of Miss England, a TV Presenters Training Course with tvtraining.co.uk, a photo shoot and portfolio, a £200 evening gown from desireoffiley.co.uk – Desire of Filey and a pamper day at Champneys. Angie said: “More prizes are being sought for the finalists and top three winners so any companies willing to donate prizes should contact angie@missengland.info or phone 01162 440479.”

To enter Miss York, send an email with your snapshot/ photo to info@missengland.info with postal entries to Miss England /York Competition Organisers PO Box 190 Leicester LE2 8ZN.”