Cardiff graduate Hannah crowned Miss Wales 2017

CARDIFF University graduate Hannah Williams has taken the title Miss Wales 2017.

The 23-year-old from Pencoed, Bridgend, was one of 32 finalists from across the country in the running for the crown this weekend and will now represent Wales at Miss World in China in November.

The runners up were 18-year-old Maryanne Petrnolis, a beauty consultant from Swansea, and 24-year-old Jayde Reader, an event manager from Cwmbran.

Hannah, who works at Sony’s plant in Pencoed as an assistant sourcing manager, said: “I have found the whole experience realty empowering.

“I worked really hard in the run up doing all the challenges and fundraising expected by the finalists. It’s a real achievement.

“I’ve loved every minute of the journey so far and now cannot wait to represent Wales at Miss World.

“The other finalists were all fantastic girls and each and every one of them has wished me well.

“I consider them my friends now and they are what has made the whole process particularly special.”

The final was held at The Riverfront in Newport and involved three appearances on the stage as well as one-to-one interviews with the panel of seven judges.

As well as the catwalk event, the contestants attended the Miss Wales Charity Ball the night before and took part in the Miss Wales Empowerment Day on Thursday to help them in their personal development and leadership skills.

In the run up to the final, the young women had been tasked with fundraising for Beauty With A Purpose, the Miss World charity which helps disadvantaged children worldwide. In total, they raised £21,000 between them.