Newtownabbey girl wins Miss NI crown

The stunning 19-year-old, who is originally from Cookstown but now lives in Newtownabbey, impressed the panel of judges with her beauty, charm and personality, giving her the winning edge over 27 other finalists to acquire the coveted crown from previous title holder, Rebekah Shirley.

The final of the competition was a glitzy black tie event held at the Europa Hotel, Belfast on Monday night, May 11.

Speaking after winning the coveted crown, Leanne, a marketing student at Ulster University in Jordanstown, said: “I am absolutely delighted to wear the Therapie Miss Northern Ireland crown and be given the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in this way. Taking part in the contest has been such an immense experience and I never thought I would come this far.

“I’ve always looked up to previous Miss Northern Ireland winners, so I hope to follow in their footsteps and become a positive role model for other local girls. Winning this title is undoubtedly life-changing and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me.”

Leanne, who won a place in the final after taking the Miss Spice title during the heats of the competition, walked off with an array of prizes including a £5,000 Ultimate Package from Therapie, a car for a year from Donnelly Fiat Group and an ACA modelling contract.

Contest organiser and Managing Director of ACA Models, Alison Clarke commented: “We are thrilled that Leanne has won the title. Although the standard of talent has been extremely high this year, Leanne has really sparkled throughout the contest and she certainly wowed the judging panel on the night.”