A 17-year-old Pembrokeshire student is bidding for success in Britain's first teen beauty pageant.

Natalie Hunt of Tenby has been chosen as one of the October finalists in the 2009 Teen Queen UK competition and is now hoping to win the public vote to reach the contest final.

Over 5,000 girls entered the initial stages of the competition, but only 50 are selected each month to be treated to a London photo-shoot before featuring on the Teen Queen UK website.

The top three then go through to the final, with a package of prizes - including £1,000 worth of shoes and a modelling agency introduction - on offer for the eventual winner.

Natalie, who is studying for her A levels at Greenhill School, Tenby and teaches violin in her spare time, is the daughter of Brian and Michelle Hunt of Narberth Road, Tenby.

The three girls who receive the greatest number of votes each month will gain a place in the final.

To vote for Natalie, text Natalie Hunt to 84205, or from landlines phone 0901 656 1515 then to select Natalie dial 09. All calls and texts cost 60p, plus standard network charge.

You can also vote for Natalie online on www.teenqueenuk.com and then click on the "2009 teen queen heats" button.