AN administration worker won the hearts of the public to win the Miss Popularity title in a beauty pageant.

Charlotte Hamilton-Macy, 25, was a runner up in the Miss Universe Essex and took home the Miss Popularity sash.

The former Stanway School pupil, who lives in Layer de la Haye, took part in the final, despite being unwell.

She said: “It was really good, it was so much fun.

“I’ve just been ill the whole time. In between rounds, I was blowing my nose and drinking as much water as I could. As they say, the showmust go on.”

More than 5,000 people entered the competition, and there were about ten finalists on the night.

Charlotte used her place in the final to raise money for Strong Bones, an Essex-based charity helping the families of children with bone disease, bone cancer and other conditions.

Although she did not win the overall prize, she is pleased with her new title, which was decided on Facebook votes.