Published: August 11, 2015
Burnham-On-Sea teacher heading to Miss England final this week
A teacher from Burnham-On-Sea who won the title of Miss Somerset earlier this year will be competing in the national finals of Miss England this week – and she needs your help to win.
Emily Sanders, 22, won the title of Miss Somerset in May and has now reached the Grand Finale of Miss England where she will represent Somerset at a ceremony in Coventry on Thursday and Friday (August 13th and 14th).
Over 20,000 ladies applied for the prestigious Miss England title, and Emily is one of 50 ladies in the final after making it through the semi-finals last month.
The hotly contested Miss England competition involves many different rounds, including Ecowear, Sportswoman, Beach Beauty, Charity, Talent and more.
Emily told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Miss England has come a long way from the days of parading around in swimwear for the entertainment of others. Sure there is a beach beauty round, but that’s one of many and it’s optional too. Those that do opt in find it promotes a healthy and positive body image, and it’s more about recognising that women should feel beautiful no matter what rather than just parading for the cameras. It’s empowering. I was a little reluctant but I’m glad I did it and I feel more confident in myself now too. I also did it on Burnham beach!”
For the talent round, each contestant is asked to produce a short film showcasing a talent of their choosing. As well as making in into the top five in the Beach Beauty round and top ten of the Fresh Modelesque award, Emily’s passion for teaching has won her a place in the top 15 of the talent round.
She added: “Education is not only a career choice, it’s firmly rooted in my personal beliefs and drive to make positive change. I absolutely adore working with young people and I feel the Miss England competition coincides with my teaching values to develop well-rounded individuals.”
She’s a passionate supporter of local charities as well as being actively involved with several organisations. She is a trustee of In Charley’s Memory, the non-profit Burnham-based mental health organisation which supports young adults dealing with mental health illnesses. She is also an ambassador for Sensational Kids Somerset, which is a new support group for children with additional needs.
Emily has also been fundraising for Beauty With A Purpose, Miss England’s chosen charity, benefitting sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and supporting various UK charities.
“Supporting local and national charities has been a big part of my Miss England campaign,” said Emily, “but I’d be doing this anyway as it’s always been something I’m really passionate about. I’ve recently become involved with Think Amy, which promotes road safety in local schools following the tragic death of 13 year old Amy Hofmeister in Taunton. I’m hoping success in Miss England will give me a wider platform to help raise awareness and further the aims of Think Amy, Sensational Kids Somerset and In Charley’s Memory.”
With just a few days to go, Emily needs your help. “I want to thank everyone who’s supported me so far, it means a lot, but there’s still time to help. I’m currently within the crucial top 15 based on votes so far, but that can change quickly and every vote counts,” she said.
To support Emily in the final you can vote for her by texting MISSENGLAND15 to 63333. Texts cost 50p plus your standard network rate.
