It would be easy to say that I had to think long and hard about which places to include in
my ‘Explore the Nation’ video, but the truth is the second I read the guidelines for this
round a plan had already formulated in my mind. Chichester, my home city, is so
intertwined with who I am as a person, that I could map it all out of the back of my hand.
I could take you through every cut through, point out every piece of artwork and still
have more to tell you.

Most of my fondest memories were made in this city, it guided me through every
milestone until I moved away at 18, and although my daily life does not revolve around
walking through this city anymore, I know I carry it with me. Every goal I achieve was first
imagined by a younger version of myself – a girl walking those streets, dreaming of a life
bigger than this city, yet forever rooted in it. Creating this video wasn’t simply about
showcasing my home but also reconnecting with it.

But, with all these amazing memories how did I choose just a few places to show you?
That was the biggest challenge of the entire video – trying to distil my home city into just
a few locations felt almost impossible. Every street corner, every café, every quiet library
nook holds a story, layered with history, memories, and joy. Despite this, I knew there
were a few places that captured the quiet essence, and yet undeniable historical
grandeur of Chichester.

1. Chichester Festival Theatre : The heart of Chichester’s creativity, founded in 1962
this world-renowned theatre brings West End talent to our quaint city and
sparked my earliest love for dance, being one of the first studios I ever joined.
2. Chichester Cathedral : A prominent landmark of Chichester with its soaring spire
and centuries-old walls, this is the hub of community within the city in which
schools and societies come together in a place of reflection and beautiful
architecture.
3. Bishops Palace Gardens : A peaceful, picturesque garden tucked behind the
walls of the cathedral, it’s one of Chichester’s best kept secrets; a tapestry of
flowers, history and peace.
4. Chichester Cross : This historic crossroad of city, where people have gathered for
centuries and where every journey through Chichester seems to start.

5. Chichester Novium : Built above the ruins of an old Roman Bathhouse, it acts as
a captivating reminder of Chichester’s rich history and tells the story of many of
Chichester’s most influential stars.
6. Priory Park: Framed by Roman Walls containing the remains of a Norman Castle,
this park holds the echoes of history and memories of childhood.
7. The Triangle & Trundle : High over the city, this hill breathes history, with a
sweeping view of the South downs it reminds you of the vast, wild beauty that
Chichester quietly holds within its borders.

Including videos from my childhood in the Explore the Nation video was deeply
meaningful acting as a powerful reminder of how much my journey is rooted in
Chichester. It wasn’t just about showing Chichester’s landmarks it but about sharing
the story of me growing up within this city. These glimpses of my younger self wandering
familiar streets or playing in local parks capture not just moments in time, but the deep
connection I have with this city reminding both myself – and hopefully others – that the
places we call home shape us in countless small ways. They hold our memories,
dreams, and the foundation of who we become. Reflecting on those scenes, I realised
how intertwined my identity is with this city’s spirit and by sharing them, I hoped to invite
others to see Chichester through my eyes – not only as a city rich in history and beauty
but also as the foundation of my own story unfolding.

So what now? What will I do as Miss Sussex?
Being Miss Sussex is a huge honour – but it’s also a responsibility. I carry with me the
stories of every young person who has ever been told their dreams were “too big.” I carry
my own story – the little girl from Chichester who spent weekends reading library books
and dreamed of changing the world in her own way.
And I carry the future, too. Because this journey isn’t just about becoming Miss England.
It’s about using every step, every stage, and every spotlight to fight for a future where
success is truly accessible to all – regardless of postcode or paycheck.
So what will I do with Miss Sussex? I’ll use it. As a platform. As a voice. As proof that you
don’t have to fit a mould to make a difference.
Here’s to the next chapter – pink stethoscope in one hand, heels in the other, and a heart
full of purpose.
There is no finish line to this journey, because it has undeniably become the beginning
of a movement. The crown doesn’t just sit on my head; it stands for every young person
who dares to dream beyond their circumstances. And I’m just getting started.