A social worker has made it into the Miss England beauty pageant finals.

Gravesend-born Neha Dhull, 23, beat 100 other competitors as she bids to become the first British Indian winner of the title.

Neha, who is also Miss Kent, went to Riverview Infant and Junior School in Cimba Wood, Gravesend, before studying for a social work degree at the University of Kent.

Speaking about her semi-finals victory, she said: “It was an amazing experience.

“I showcased my eco outfit there, which was very special to me.

“The outfit was made from second-hand school uniform and second-hand material from Barnardo Charity.

“This charity is very close to my heart as it helps children in our society. I wanted to make my eco outfit symbolic as I wanted to highlight the importance of education and safeguarding of vulnerable children in the social care system.

“Working with vulnerable children is what I am very passionate about and I want to continue this, if I was Miss England.”

Currently working in Dartford, at a fostering agency, she has raised more than £1,000 for the Beauty With A Purpose charity through various events and cake sales. The Miss England finalist, who grew up in Cambria Crescent, previously told the Messenger how much Gravesend meant to her. She added: “I was born here, and spent my childhood here. I love Gravesend, as for me, it represents diversity where people from different ethnic backgrounds and religions come together equally.

“My roots will always be here.”

The finals will be split into the two parts, where Neha will face 49 others vying for the crown. The first part will be held in Birmingham on July 26-27.

The second part will be held in Kelham, Nottinghamshire, and will include a sports round, general knowledge round, top model round and hair round.

Neha visited her old school in Gravesend, last Saturday (July 28).

She spoke about her Miss England dreams.

She said: “It was really nice to see everyone to talk about the upcoming pageant and what I’m doing.”