A STUNNING brunette from Caversham Heights is one of a select few contestants who has made it to the final stages of a major beauty pageant.

Devina Majumder is currently vying to be crowned Miss England 2017 after making it to the first semi-final of the competition.

The 24-year-old now has one month to promote herself on social media as well as raising awareness and funds for the Miss World Charity 'Beauty with a Purpose' to gain votes.

“I feel incredibly lucky just to have got this far,” she said. “Growing up, I had always been fascinated by the Miss World and Miss Universe beauty pageants.

“As a little girl, I always wanted to wear a tiara so I guess I'm living out a childhood memory.”

Devina has chosen to raise money for Cancer Research UK after fundraising for the charity having completed this year's Reading Half Marathon in April.

“Having studied biomedical sciences at university, I have always felt that more researched needs to be carried out to help eradicate a disease which affects so many,” Devina admitted.

“I also support a local Indian organisation called Sanskriti. We carry out the largest Diwali celebration in the south east and it's close to my heart as it helps me stay connected with my roots.”

The top three contestants in the public vote and two of the judges' choices will then be shortlisted for a final interview by telephone.

The eventual winner will then take part in the second semi-final taking place in Nottinghamshire in June next year.

Voting started on September 30 and will close on October 28.

The ultimate winner of Miss England 2017 will spend her year raising awareness for various charities and will receive a host of prizes including a £30,000 holiday.

A place in Miss World 2017 is also on offer for the eventual winner.

In the last three years more than £800,000 has been raised by Miss England contestants to help disadvantaged children around the UK.