A 19-YEAR-OLD from Hoddlesden is hoping for a shot at the title Miss England 2006.

Michelle Rowell, of Earls Drive, has reached the final of next year's Miss Alton Towers event in Staffordshire.

And the winner of that qualifies automatically for Miss England.

But before she can progress any further, Michelle must find a business to sponsor her to the tune of £100.

She is hoping a local company will give her its backing and has sent out requests to various firms.

Michelle, who has previously done TV extra work, would like to become a regular on TV or stage and is already signed to an agency.

She said: "My agency told me about Miss Alton Towers 2006 so I sent off the application form and a photograph in the summer and recently received an invitation to take part in the final.

"I think they are looking for something different from the stereotypical stick-thin girl with blonde hair and blue eyes. I have curves and have dark hair.

"We will all have to wear evening dresses and then something more casual like we would wear for a night out, so probably a shorter dress.

"There are 40 girls in the competition so I can't say whether I think I will win.

"I am always applying for something but this will be my first live appearance so I'm a bit nervous.

"But my first priority is finding a sponsor before February 1 or I may lose my place."

Michelle, who lives with her parents Judith and Philip Rowell, is a former pupil of Canon Slade High School, Bolton.

She has worked as a customer co-ordinator at Barclays Bank, Blackburn, for three years.

She has private singing lessons and has won awards for cheerleading at the Dance and Performing Arts Centre at Eanam, Blackburn.

The Miss Alton Towers final is on May 19 and is open to females aged between 17 and 24.

There will be 66 regional heats across the country, including Alton Towers, with the winners of each competing in Miss England at a venue and date still to be announced.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Michelle can contact her on 07742 529780.