A TEENAGER from Bowdon has reached the final stages of a national modelling competition.

Sixteen year-old Rebecca Smith, of Stanhope Road, is one of ten youngsters hoping to reach the final of Wrigley's Extra model search and be in with a chance of winning a modelling contract.

Model scouts stopped Rebecca, who is a pupil at Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, in July as she was shopping with a friend, Sophie Murrills, in Manchester. The two girls had their photos taken and were filmed walking up and down the main street.

The photos were then entered into the northern half of the competition and both Rebecca and Sophie have reached the penultimate stage. The two teenagers are now waiting to find out whether they have reached the final.

Rebecca said: "I was really shocked when I was asked to enter the competition and I never thought I would get this far. I didn't expect to hear from them again but they rang to say I had reached the semi-final."

Rebecca, who enjoys playing hockey and coaching tennis, would like to pursue her modelling career but her ultimate ambition is to become a vet in Africa.

The lucky winner of the national competition will receive a dream holiday and get the chance to appear in a feature for Heat magazine. They will also be represented by Close model agency and have the opportunity to be cast for the next London Fashion Week.