A BAR owner from Haslingden has said it was 'amazing' to come in the top 20 of a national modelling competition.

Thomas O’Toole, 25, competed in the finals of 'Mr England' in Birmingham earlier this month.

He made the finals after winning the social media round of the competition earlier this year.

Mr O'Toole, who owns The Live Lounge in Haslingden, overcame his battle with alopecia to find success at the event.

In the final he had to complete a variety of rounds such as modelling different outfits and a general knowledge round.

He said around 14,000 people entered the competition and he was 'honoured' to finish as a finalist in the top 20.

The former actor said: "It was absolutely amazing.

"This was the first time I'd done anything like this.

"It was just great to take part, all of the lads there were great.

"I'm on a bit of a come down afterwards now.

"It was great to take part in the pageant.

"But now I'm excited to get back into acting and see what opportunities come up there."

Mr O'Toole previously appeared in Hollyoaks, Shameless and Fresh Meat, and said he is now looking to work in soaps on television again.

He also previously modelled for clothing brands such as Limitless Clothing.