A DEGREE student is living proof that you can have brains as well as beauty.

Alexandra Dominique Thomas, 20, is preparing to strut her stuff on the catwalk as she competes for the Beauty of England title.

She is busy rehearsing her walk and posture while studying for her social sciences degree at the University Centre of Blackburn.

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The mum-of-one, who lives in the Oakdale estate in Lower Darwen, said: “The course has lots of modules based around economics, politics and sociology and I really enjoy it. It’s a three year course and then I hope to complete my masters.”

The former Blackburn College and Witton Park student represented Blackburn in the competition last year and finished among the top eight, receiving the coveted director’s choice award. This year she will be representing the North West.

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As well as preparing for the beauty pageant, Alexandra is also studying full time for her degree with the aim of becoming a children’s mental health therapist when she graduates.

She said: “I have always been interested in modelling but I’m quite short – I’m only 5ft 4. So, instead of the mainstream route, I tried entering the beauty pageant last year. The beauty pageants accept women of all shapes and sizes, employed and unemployed, and also mothers – unlike Miss England – and I have a two-year-old son called Leon.”

When asked what her best asset was, she said: “A lot of people comment on my eyes and ask if I wear contact lenses. They are very blue and look quite striking.

“I play netball twice a week with the Rishton Pioneers at Witton Park which I think helps keep me in shape.

“My friends and family have been really supportive. My son isn’t really old enough to understand or take an interest, but he tries to put my dresses on.

“Last year the judges said I showed a lot of potential and looked very confident on stage. It is very good boost for your self esteem.

“There’s a lot of stigma associated with beauty pageants. I think mothers are discriminated against in a lot of beauty competitions, but it’s because the organisers would expect the winners to travel around the world.”

The final will be held in October at the Park Hall Hotel in Chorley, and will include an interview with the judges, first round, swimwear round, fun fashion round and evening round.

If she wins, she will compete in Spain on the worldwide stage.

Alexandra is currently looking for a sponsor to help her with the £170 entry fee.