A deaf student is hoping to raise awareness of hearing loss as she reaches the finals of this year's Miss England competition.

Nicole Warren, 16, of New Barnet, is one of 15 finalists competing in the photographic heat qualifier.

Nicole said: “I am proud to be a deaf person and I want to show the whole world that deaf people can do as well in life or better than hearing people.

“A disability should not be a reason for being unable to fulfil your whole potential. The competition has helped motivate me to do my very best.”

The A-level student is relying on the public vote in order to secure a place in the Miss England semi-final in June.

She said: “I would be very excited to win the Miss England title as it will help me to promote deaf awareness within a mainstream competition. It would be great to represent my country as Miss England as a deaf person.”

To vote for Nicole visit the Miss England website.

www.missengland.info