A BOURNEMOUTH teenager is one of the youngest hopefuls off to the Miss England semi finals later this month.

Former Glenmoor School pupil Eliz-abeth Turner has just turned 17, the qualifying age for the pageant.

On Wednesday, May 30, she will face competition from more than 30 hopefuls in a day of bootcamps and stage shows.

Elizabeth, an account manager for Carphone Warehouse, said: “This seemed a good way to do a lot for charity and also have fun at the same time.

“I just want to show other girls you can do whatever you want.”

Elizabeth is collecting for the Beauty with a Purpose charity, which helps disadvantaged children worldwide.

Ten girls at the semi-final in Leicester will go through to the grand final, which will be held June.

The youngster will be hoping to join Bournemouth University marketing student Annabell Newman who has already qualified for the final.

Annabell, 19, is a qualified gymnastics and dance teacher and earned her place in the final when she was crowned Miss Dorset.

June 25 will see the finalists attend a hair and fashion show, followed by the grand final the following day.

The lucky winner will be whisked off to Mauritius to take part in a carnival and will also represent England at the prestigious Miss World contest in August.