CONFIDENT contestants strutted their stuff before judges in an effort to reach the shortlist for the MS York 2005 competition.

More than 40 girls paraded in front of the Miss England talent scouts and had their photographs taken at Next Generation Club, off Hull Road, York.

They hope to be in the final 15 who will compete for the MS York crown on Friday, May 20, at York Racecourse.

The event, which will be judged by the current Miss England, Danielle Lloyd, will raise thousands of pounds for the MS Woodlands Respite Care Centre.

Contest organiser Vivienne Lee said they had been inundated with entries.

"The competition has really taken off," she said.

Chief judge Angie Beasley, a Miss England organiser, said: "We're looking for confident girls as well as beautiful ones. It's all about the way they present themselves to the judges and the way they walk.

"If they are nervous just doing this, then they would be really nervous doing a proper show."

The eventual Ms York winner will claim £1,500 in prizes.

She will also automatically go through to the Miss England contest.

Those taking part in yesterday's audition said they were really nervous to go before the judges, but excited at the prospect of being crowned MS York.

Krystal Talmadge, 18, of Clifton Moor, a special constable, said: "I was really nervous because I was the first one on, but it was all a bit of fun and games.

"I might be in with a chance."

Student Holly Popplewell, 18, of Haxby, said: "I really enjoyed the experience.

"It was nerve-racking being in front of the judges, and there are a lot of nice girls around."

Student Georgia Horsley, 18, of Norton, said: "Everybody here is gorgeous so I don't know how I will do."

The final shortlist will be revealed later this week.

Updated: 10:24 Wednesday, April 27, 2005