A MODEL from Thurrock is determined to show the nation there’s more to Essex girls than fake tan and TOWIE.

Sasha Wright, will compete for the Miss Essex title in Westcliff on Wednesday, April 30. Should she earn that crown, she’ll enter the running for the Miss England title.

The former Grays School and Media Arts College pupil is determined to represent the county she has grown up in and loves at that event in June.

“I would love to represent Essex,” Sasha told the Gazette. “It’s my home and I love it here. I want to show that Essex girls have got a lot more about them than just fake tan. I want to show that women here have lots going for them.”

Since taking part in her first beauty pageant four years ago, aged 16, Sasha, who lives in Hillside, Grays, has competed in numerous teen events, jetted around Europe and raised hundreds of pounds for Havens Hospice, St Luke’s Hospice and Help For Heroes.

She said: “I always wanted to do modelling and started by looking at pageants. I loved that the girls taking part do lots for charity and more than just catwalking. It’s a lifestyle.”

Now 20, Sasha - who works a make up artist and promotional model - is taking part in “Miss” competitions, which are more demanding and of a higher standard.

“The ‘Miss’ contests are more demanding. In March I took part in Miss Galaxy England and that was my first one, whoch was scary. But you become more of a role model for younger girls looking up to us. That’s an amazing part of it - and something i’ve always looked forward to doing.”

And with the Westcliff event at the Genting Casino looming large, Sasha has shown discipline and dedication through a love of sport to get herself in shape as she bids to become the next Miss Essex.

Chadwell St Mary personal trainers Supreme Being Fitness, who are sponsoring her, have been helping out.

She will also be wearing dresses provided by USA-based firm Party Time Formals.

The winner of Miss England gets the chance to represent the country in the Miss World Finals.