A TOWY Valley hairdresser is in the running to become Miss Great Britain 2016.

Natasha Jonson, from Llandeilo, was named Miss Swansea in May and will be competing against 50 other women to become Miss Great Britain in a ceremony held in Leicester this September.

The former Amman Valley school pupil had previously entered Miss Carmarthenshire but failed to place in the competition.

The 21-year-old said: “When I didn’t get through Miss Carmarthenshire, I was gutted but it was an amazing experience.

“I decided to apply for Miss Swansea and I ended up winning the competition.

“I got into beauty pageants because I know someone who competed in Mr Wales and it really has boosted my confidence.

“People think these types of competitions make you feel unconfident but it has really pushed me to achieve something.”

Natasha is now preparing and practicing ready for the big pageant, which has recently announced that TV star Jake Quickenden is one of the guest judges.

“I have submitted by beach body picture already and for the talent section, I am going to be singing” said an excited Natasha.

“I have previously performed in Llandeilo Festival of the Senses and I have won Llandeilo Got Talent in the past.

“I enjoy singing and performing ballads.”

Natasha is currently a hairdresser at Morgan Edward, which has a salon branch in both Carmarthen and Llandeilo.

In order for her to compete for Miss Great Britain, the beauty contestant had to secure a sponsorship and take part in fundraising activities.

She said: “My sponsor is A William Contract services and I am going to be doing a fundraising walk up Pen-y-Fan on August 21 to raise money for Global Make Some noise, which is the Miss Great Britain’s chosen charity.

“My colleagues at Morgan Edward are joining me at Pen-y-Fan and helping me raise as much money as possible.

“I am so pleased with all the support I have received from my family, friends, local gym and my personal trainer.”

Natasha makes her first appearance as Miss Swansea at Pantglas Hall Holiday Resort and Leisure Club on August 7 as part of their family open day.