FEISTY Holly Kishere - aka Miss Bournemouth - plans to do battle in more ways than one when she takes part in the Miss England finals in September.

The 17-year-old from King John Avenue in Bearwood, has been practising body combat as part of her preparation for the national beauty queen contest.

Now we know there will be stiff competition for the coveted crown but isn't that taking it a bit too far? I caught up with Holly at a fashion photo shoot in Bournemouth to find out.

"We have to demonstrate a talent as part of the competition so I thought a body combat display would be a bit different from the usual ballet and singing routine," she explained. "I have been going to the gym several times a week to practise. It's great fun and it keeps you fit, too."

Holly, who admits she has a weakness for fast food and takeaways, has had to make some major lifestyle changes after she was chosen to represent the town in the regional heat.

"I have never had to worry about what I eat before and I used to eat quite a lot of rubbish. I never used to go to the gym, either.

The former St Edwards Comprehensive School pupil is one of the youngest competitors to collect the Miss Bournemouth title.

Holly was one of six finalists chosen from 230 girls across the region who took part in the Miss Bournemouth competition last month at Twisters nightclub in Albert Road, Bournemouth.

She was selected by a panel of judges, who included former Miss Bournemouth, Sam Lewis, and Miss England winner Jackie Turner.

Holly has 11 GCSEs and is studying for a national diploma for IT practitioners, although she says her first choice would be a modelling career.

Her family and friends will be going along to support her at the Miss England finals in Liverpool on September 2-3.

"It's going to be a tough competition but I am looking forward to taking part and to representing Bournemouth. I would love to have a modelling career and I am hoping this could be the break I have been waiting for."

Holly is appealing for support from Echo readers to boost her chances of winning the Miss England title. The contestant who gets the most text votes will be fast-tracked to the final 12. The text vote also counts as one judge on the night. All you have to do is send a text to 81444 with the words vote bournemouth. (Texts cost 50p).

First published: August 26