A TEENAGE beauty queen is preparing to fly to America to compete for the title of Miss Beauteen World, after winning the national crown.

Eighteen-year-old Rochelle Gough will travel to Texas to compete against 50 girls from across the world for the prestigious title, after being crowned Miss Beauteen Wales earlier this year.

Currently completing her final year at Stanwell School, Rochelle, of South Road, Sully, said she was still coming to terms with the news.

“I was so shocked when they rang me to tell me I had won,” she said.

“And now I’m off to America, it’s unbelievable!

“They asked me why I should win and I said ‘because I try my best to be a good role model for younger girls’.

“I told them everyone needs to be their own person but there is nothing wrong with taking the best bits from people they admire and adding them to their own personality.”

“The ceremony for the Welsh crowning was in Bristol and my whole family went to make a day of it - they have been so supportive,” she added.

“Now we’re all off to America! It promises to be a special trip.”

Rochelle, who is hoping to attend Bath University, said she had been working hard in preparation and had received some much appreciated help.

“I have to thank my friend Sarah Brown, who has been acting as my personal trainer and nutritionist, and also the people who are designing my dress in the colours of the Welsh flag - it’s over the top and glamorous!” she added.

Proud grandmother Bridget Gardiner said: “I’m absolutely thrilled for her.

“It’s a great opportunity for her travel and to grow as a young woman. She’s the apple of my eye and I want her to know we are all so proud!”

Rochelle will fly out to Texas on July 31.