Kate Excell is in super shape for the beach this summer – and now has an award to prove it.

The 30-year-old, who helps run fitness gym Boost in Whitfield won third place in the Beach Body category of this year’s Miss Galaxy Universe 2015.

Miss Excell, who lives in Mill Road, Sturry, was among 40 girls aged between 18 to 32 who competed in the two-day event in Crawley.

The former Sir Roger Manwood’s student said: “I didn’t expect a place, I entered Miss Galaxy just for the process I didn’t think about winning.

“So when they called my name out I was chuffed, I was really overwhelmed.”

This was her first competition, but she hopes to take part in more.

“But it’s not just how good a shape you are in because the first day is a pretty tough fitness challenge which includes timed 800, 200 and 100 metre sprints, pulling a car and completing a 30kg sandbag shuttle and press-up challenge,” she said.

“The second day included a bikini and glamorous evening wear round.”

She currently works for the Kent County Show but is planning a full time move to Boost later this year. Ms Excell channels her fitness interest into helping others at her classes in Napchester Road.

For more information visit www.boostcampfitness.co.uk