Laura blazes China beauty trail

Laura Livesey has been in Miss Wales three times

Beauty consultant Laura Livesey is preparing to break new ground in a major international pageant, with a little help from a former Miss Wales.

Laura, 23, of Old Colwyn, represents Wales as one of the first European entrants allowed into Miss Asia-Pacific International for around 20 years.

She will be sponsored to raise awareness of child hospices Ty Gobaith, Conwy, and Hope House, Oswestry.

The trip has been organised by former Miss Wales Beverly Neils.

Laura will flying to Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong province next month, accompanied by two other contestants from England and Scotland.

"I have competed in Miss Wales three times, but this is a different scale," she said.

"I will be there for three and a half weeks. We are having a life coach to give us confidence as we have to answer questions on stage."

The tremendous help Ty Gobaith gives to my family and many others like it has been a life saver over the years Beverley Neils

The 9 April contest will follow tradition and have three sections: for evening wear, swimwear and national costume. But there is also the chance to take part in a talent competition, for which Laura may dance.

Organiser Ms Neils said it was wonderful to have an opportunity to give something back to Hope House, which helped her to look after her son Conner.

"The tremendous help Ty Gobaith gives to my family and many others like it has been a life-saver over the years," she said.

"It is amazing - you can leave a child that not many people can look after."

Ms Neils chose the three UK contestants but next year intends to organise competitions in Wales, England and Scotland to pick them.

Meanwhile, she has plenty of tips to pass on to this year's entrants, some 20 years after winning the Miss Wales title.

"Myself and another friend are going to give them makeovers and let them in on a few secrets," she said.