Bexhill boasts most beautiful woman

Vigdis Cording, 55, won the title last Wednesday in a nationwide competition run by Lancome and the Good Housekeeping Magazine.

Now the psychiatric nurse is awaiting her prizes - a year's modelling contract with Close Management, a 500 make over and 1,000 cash.

Vigdis said: "I am still really bemused by all this as are my four daughters and my partner thinks it's great. One of my daughters is a model herself and she thinks it's very funny. We might end up travelling to London together for work."

But daughter Alexis, 21 (pictured above with her mother), said they weren't surprised at all and added: "We all knew she would win. My modelling agency have been asking about her since I started. We are so proud."

The glamour drama started at the beginning of August when a colleague spotted the competition in the magazine and persuaded Vigdis to enter.

Vigdis said: "I was stalling so didn't send in my entry until August 18, the day before the closing date, and Alexis had to take my picture."

The following Tuesday Vigdis received a phone call saying she was one of 15 finalists and had to go to London on September 2 for a photo shoot.

Four finalists were selected and invited back to London on September 14 for the final photoshoot - which will appear in December's issue of the Good Housekeeping magazine.

Vigdis said: "I hadn't taken it seriously because I didn't think I had a chance and it was just a bit of fun. That way I wasn't expecting too much and wouldn't be too disappointed. I was busy thinking about all the work I had to do when I heard them announce me as the winner.

"But I am obviously pleased I won and I think it's a huge compliment."

So what's the secret to this family's beauty?

Vigdis said: "No secret, I'm afraid. I think spending the first 20 years of my life in Norway packed in ice helped. I just splash some water on my face and moisturiser when I remember. But I think it's important to look after yourself.

"It gives you pride and confidence in yourself."