THERE is a very busy year ahead for Rachael Tate who has brought a European title home to Denbighshire.
Rachael, from Henllan, has been crowned Miss European, becoming the second Welsh woman to win the tile in the competition’s history.
A former pupil of St Bridgits and Denbigh High sixth form, Rachael, 21, took part in the week long event from October 17 to 23, competing against 73 other girls.
“We spent days and nights out at various attractions, appearances with the different EU member state girls,” said Rachael, who studied law at Aberystwyth University.
“I became Miss European Wales as I competed against my own team for the Wales title.
"Having won this I then competed against the winner of every state and took the the title of Miss European, bringing the title home to Wales.”
The title was last taken by Wales in 2005.
“I was ecstatic to win and thoroughly enjoyed the competition," she said.
"It was well organised and a great chance to meet some lovely people from all over the European Union.
“Not only did I win Miss European, I also won Spirit of Miss European, an additional title awarded by hotel staff for the girl who they felt was the most outstanding contestant all week.”
As the reigning Miss European, Rachael won a prize from each country, including Champagne, hundreds of pounds worth of jewellery, and all expenses paid trips to France, the South of England and Portugal to host the next Miss European.
Rachael, who works as a families’ caseworker specialising in children with disabilities, will be keeping herself busy with a variety of appearances from photo shoots to promotions, articles to judging contests in the UK.
“I hope that my success will provide a platform to help others and to act as a role model for younger girls," she said.
"I would be happy to help other local girls succeed in this exciting passion of mine.
“I am happy to assist in any charity work, promotions work or other appearances for local businesses or charities.
“I would like to say a big thank you to my sponsor Erivit Hall, a manor for luxury special events just outside Denbigh."