Жительница Дарлингтона Элли Дейглиш претендует на титул Мисс Англии и обещает вернуть корону в родной город

A Darlington woman says she could “make history” this year as she prepares to compete for the Miss England crown. Ellie Daglish, 24, who grew up in the North East town before moving to Nottinghamshire, will take part in the Miss England final on November 17 in Leicester. The fashion merchandiser, who now represents Nottinghamshire after winning her regional title, believes she could become the first woman from Darlington to be crowned Miss England if she wins the competition. The prestigious pageant sees the winner go on to represent England at Miss World and includes rounds focusing on charity work and public speaking among many other categories. For Ellie, reaching the final is the culmination of a seven-year journey that began when she first entered the world of pageantry at the age of 18. She said: "I've been involved in pageants for seven years now, which is crazy to think about. “I kind of fell into it quite randomly when I was 18, but it ended up helping me find what I was really passionate about." She added: "People often think pageants are just about appearance, but they're so much more than that. "They give women a platform to talk about issues that matter to them and make a difference. "Miss England has always been the competition I looked up to because of the work it does and the incredible women involved." Ellie previously competed for Miss England when she was 18 but was unsuccessful. Now, six years after moving away from her hometown, she has returned to the competition with a renewed sense of determination. A major part of her campaign is Green Generations, a project she created to encourage environmental education among young people. Through workshops, talks and activities in schools and youth groups, Ellie hopes to inspire children to become more engaged with nature and sustainability. She said: "When I was younger, I spent a lot of time outdoors and grew up with a real appreciation for nature. I don't think as many young people have that same connection today. "Technology has brought so many positives, but I think we've also lost some of that excitement about getting outside, protecting biodiversity and understanding the environment around us. "Young people are the future and they're the most important people to inspire. "Whether it's growing food, learning about recycling or simply spending more time outdoors, I want them to realise they can make a real difference in their communities." Despite now living in Nottinghamshire, Ellie said Darlington remains an important part of her identity - and she hopes to return to the area as part of her campaign. She is due to visit her former college and hopes to speak at local schools about her experiences. She said: "My roots are in Darlington and they always will be. "It would be incredibly special to bring the Miss England crown back to the town where I grew up. "I want to come back and share my journey with local schools and organisations because this community played a huge role in shaping who I am today." Read more 31 pictures as eight Darlington care homes compete for trophy in 'care home Olympics' First look at Darlington restaurant promising live music and Brazilian themed nights Much-loved County Durham Italian restaurant announces closure after six years Looking ahead to the final, Ellie said she is feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. She said: "It's definitely nerve wracking, but I'm really excited. I've made some incredible friends through Miss England and it's been an amazing experience already. "The competition has given me confidence, friendships and a platform to speak about something I care deeply about. “I would encourage any young woman to get involved because it can give you so much. Whatever happens in November." "I'm proud of how far I've come," she added.