A 17-year-old Ilford girl is one step away from being crowned Miss England.

Lauren Peters triumphed last night in the semi-finals of the competition and is now down to the final 60 in the running for the grand title.

After three rounds of interview, evening wear and eco fashion, judges placed Ms Peters in the top 15 at the competition round in Leicestershire.

Miss Peters said: “I am thrilled.

“The competition was very tough so to be awarded a place in the top 15 is amazing.

“Even if I don’t win the experience so far has been amazing.”

The final in Birmingham starts on June 23 with a two-day boot camp.

Finalists will take part in a fitness test and a Front Top Model round.

A final 15 will compete for the crown on June 26.