AN Okehampton woman is dedicating her time to promoting body confidence among women, after having just competed in the Miss/Ms British Beauty Curve 2015 pageant.

Thirty-year-old Alexandra Denman currently holds the title of Mrs Devon Curve 2015, after making it to the grand finals of the national pageant and now wants to use her experience to inspire women and girls of all ages and sizes to have confidence in themselves.

Alexandra said: ‘I entered the Miss/Ms British Beauty Curve 2015 pageant via their website.

‘I sent in my application and some photos and was asked what area I would like to represent, in which I chose Devon.

‘I was chosen to compete in the grand finals at the Epsom Playhouse in Surrey in the Ms category under the title of Mrs Devon Curve 2015, as I am married.

‘I received my sash just a few weeks before the pageant as I was a late entry. I was lucky to win a spot.

‘I didn’t win any prizes at the pageant, but had the most amazing time and made some friends for life.

‘The whole experience gave me a new wave of confidence and made me feel more body confident. The pageant was for curvy girls to represent that beauty comes in all forms.’

Alexandra, who works for the Devon Recovery Learning Community as a peer trainer, running courses for people with mental health problems, said being part of the pageant was great fun.

‘The day started with us getting our t-shirts. We met the other girls in our category and got to know each other.

‘We were then taken to the auditorium to be introduced to the pageant director and the choreographer.

‘We had a group photo taken with our sashes on and then we went straight to rehearsals.

‘We were taught a short dance routine and given little Union Jack flags to wave.

‘We were taught how to do our walks for each round — a fashion round, swimsuit round and evening gowns. My husband supported me in the audience.

‘The whole day was just one of the best experiences I have ever had.

‘I hope to go back next year.

‘It feels wonderful to be Mrs Devon Curve 2015 and I hope to use my title to inspire women and girls that no matter what size you are, you can still be beautiful.

‘I want to help women and girls embrace who they are and be comfortable in their own skin.

‘I am hoping to use this to fundraise for mental health charities and domestic violence charities.’

Alexandra is keen to do some promotional work using her title free of charge for businesses or charities at openings, events, carnivals or festivals, etc.

Email her on [email protected]