Will the Charity Queen of2016 please step forward...

Lizzie says the emphasis on the pageant, to be held on July 16 at the Arthur Easton Hall, St Michael’s Hospice, is that it will be a fun and friendly event, whilst raising funds for the Phoenix Appeal, which needs to raise £1m to complete refurbishment following the destruction left after a fire at the hospice last year.

Lizzie, 28, is currently competing in the ‘Mrs’ category of the Royal UK Miss pageant. She says she was inspired to organise the event as some pageants get bad press. “They are actually valuable platforms to encourage and support girls and women in their community and charitable endeavours,” she said. “As part of my work for the pageant I am raising funds for my personal cause, the Phoenix Appeal. Although I haven’t personally had a loved one benefit from the fantastic care the Hospice provides, many of my friends have and I know the Hospice holds a special place in the hearts of the Hastings community.

“After the dreadful fire, I couldn’t believe that something so awful could happen and I wanted to do anything to help. I came up with the idea of the pageant to provide a fun and new way of raising funds.

“The £15 entry fee will go directly to the Appeal and contestants have the option of raising sponsorship to help take our support to the next level.

“Winners will be able to use their titles to help raise awareness for the cause on social media and at other events if they wish.”

There will be several different age categories and Lizzie says it really is open to anyone with no upper age limit. “The winners will be chosen based on a brief modelling walk and an interview with the judges.

“Each contestant may choose to raise sponsorship for the pageant, with the contestant who raises the most being crowned Charity Queen.

“There will also be an optional talent round, with prizes for best Under 18 Talent and best Over 18 Talent.”

Every participant will receive a medal and there will be a number of side awards. Want to enter? Message Lizzie at: https://www.facebook.com/hospicepageant/ to be sent the info pack.