A schoolgirl selected from hundreds of applicants to take part in a modelling competition has asked local residents for their vote.

Lynsey Cooper made it through to the August heat of the Miss UK Face of Fashion competition and could go on to the grand finals next year if she wins enough votes.

The 17-year-old, who lives in Martin Crescent in Croydon, said her friends had inspired her to try modelling.

She said: “I sent off a few pictures to different companies and a few said yes.

"But my mum never thought I'd be picked for the competition. She's bragging about it to everyone!”

Miss Cooper is currently studying for her A-levels and hopes to read law at university.

You can vote for her by sending a text message to 60040, typing “MODEL” and “0398”, or by calling 0901 307 4000 then keying 0398. Text messages and calls both cost 50p.