Hartlepool youngster hopes to wow judges at Junior Miss British Isles competition

Freya Murphy, who is in the final of Junior Miss British Isles.

Freya Murphy, 12, has reached the final of modelling competition Junior Miss British Isles after impressing industry experts with her portfolio photos.

The Year 7 pupil at English Martyrs School entered the competition just two weeks ago by sending off her modelling photos to be judged by ALBA Modelling Information, to secure the title of Junior Miss County Durham.

Freya impressed experts with her portfolio of photos.

Now Freya, who plans to launch a career as a model, will travel to Liverpool with mum Lisa Murphy to take part in the final on June 26 at The Hilton Hotel, which will see her compete against other girls hoping to win the title of Junior Miss British Isles.

Also shortlisted from Hartlepool are Ellie Brookes, 15, who will represent Junior Miss Hartlepool and Izzie Barnecutt, 12, who will represent Junior Miss North East Coast. Mum-of-three Lisa, 42, said she is very proud of her daughter Freya’s achievements.

“This is the first competition she has ever entered,” she said. “She has always wanted to be a model, so I am really proud of her and I think the competition will be really good for her, as it will give her a confidence boost.

“She is so excited to have won the title Junior Miss Durham and to have reached the final this weekend.”

Ellie Brookes from Hartlepool is also a Junior Miss Great Britain finalist.

Freya has been sponsored by Evans Halshaw Renault Durham, after gaining the support of manager Alan Brenen, who has high hopes for the youngster.

During the final she will compete against other girls aged between 12 and 15, as she takes part in a professional photo shoot, catwalk round in evening wear, and take part in an interview in front of a panel of judges.

Should she win, Freya will receive £1,500, including a modelling and promotional contract, as well as the Junior Miss British Isles title, crown and sash, a £500 gown, photo-shoot, a professional modelling portfolio and a make over.

Mum Lisa added: “We will be getting the train down to Liverpool for the competition and then we will stay over. “I am excited and anxious about the weekend, as she will be competing against girls from all over the country, but I know she will be great. “I wish her good luck and hope it will launch her modelling career.”