Performing arts graduate and the reigning Miss World England Grace Richardson is currently enjoying the experience of a lifetime as she proudly represents England at the 75th Miss World Festival in Vietnam.

After arriving in Hanoi following a comfortable long-haul flight with Vietnam Airlines, Grace’s feet have barely touched the ground! Since landing, she has been immersed in a packed Miss World schedule alongside more than 100 contestants from around the globe.

Highlights So Far…

One of Grace’s first major appearances was the spectacular Miss World Opening Ceremony, where contestants celebrated Vietnamese culture by taking to the catwalk wearing Vietnam’s beautiful traditional Áo dài.

Grace walked alongside Miss Denmark, marking one of her first international catwalk appearances as Miss World England.

Since then, the contestants have been busy sightseeing exploring the world heritage sight such as Ha long bay , attending official various events, rehearsing and experiencing the culture and hospitality of Vietnam — while forming lifelong  friendships with women representing countries from across the world.

Another highlight for Grace was attending the OMODA & JAECOO launch party in Vietnam, where she had the opportunity to model and pose alongside some of the brands’ latest cars. Here she is with Miss ireland posing with their latest models during the party !  Omoda and Jaecoo are distinct sister brands sharing underlying technology and platforms while targeting different aesthetic preferences and market segment. 

Taking to the Catwalk in Vietnam 

On the 18th August , Grace competed in the highly anticipated Miss World Top Model round, modelling stunning creations by Vietnamese designers.

The fashion event provided another opportunity for Grace to showcase her catwalk skills, with the spectacular Dragon Square providing a stunning backdrop for the Vietnamese fashion showcase.

Grace pictured 3rd in on left !

Grace is no stranger to the runway, having modelled professionally before winning Miss England, but representing her country on an international Miss World catwalk has made the experience particularly special.

Between appearances, events and rehearsals, Grace is sharing the adventure with her roommate, Miss Ireland, Caoimhe Kenny, with the pair making some incredible memories together during their time in Vietnam.

The Best Is Yet to Come… 

There is still plenty more to come for Grace.

One round she is particularly excited about is Miss World Talent, where multitalented Grace will now be showcasing her singing.

Talent played an important part in Grace’s own Miss England journey. She won the Miss England Talent round with her performance of “Never Enough”, helping her on her way to being crowned Miss England.

Now, following her graduation in Performing Arts, Grace is looking forward to performing again — this time representing England on the Miss World stage.

Grace is also excited about the forthcoming Sports round, which she says has “a little twist to it this year”, as well as the Head-to-Head round, where she will have the opportunity to share more about her Beauty With a Purpose project, Every Drop Counts.

R- L Miss World finalists – WALES, ENGLAND NORTHERNIRELAND AND FINLAND READY FOR THE SPORTSROUND

Grace’s Beauty with a Purpose  project focuses on raising awareness of water conservation and the impact our everyday choices — including fashion — can have on the world’s precious water resources.

Beauty With a Purpose has been at the heart of Miss World for decades, and Grace is hoping to use this incredible international platform to take the message behind Every Drop Counts to an even wider audience.

Grace on Her Miss World Experience 

Grace said:

“I have loved absolutely every moment so far in Vietnam. The country and its people are beautiful inside and out; I couldn’t have asked for a better host country.

I am really looking forward to the talent round and am excited to perform again since my graduation! I am also looking forward to the sports round, which has a little twist to it this year, and Head-to-Head, where I will be able to share more about my BWAP project with everyone here!

Overall, this has been an experience of a lifetime and I will forever cherish these memories.”

 

Thank You to Grace’s Supporters 

A special thank you goes to Seasonal Trunk for providing some of the fabulous outfits Grace has been wearing during her Miss World journey, and to Vietnam Airlines for helping Grace begin her adventure with a comfortable journey to Vietnam.

With plenty more events, rehearsals and competition rounds still ahead, Grace’s 75th Miss World story is far from over.

Good luck, Grace — England is behind you! 

Follow @grace.richo and the official Miss England social media channels for more updates from Vietnam.

Could You Follow in Grace’s Footsteps?

Applications are open for the next Miss England competition, offering contestants the opportunity to represent their area, compete for the national crown and potentially go on to represent England at Miss World.

Apply now at by clicking this ENTER NOW 

NxtGen Ent kindly gifted ten red sashes for ten of our semi finalists to wear at the next Miss England semi final at Melton Mowbray on 11th October .

Nxt Gen Ent Ltd, are a leading worldwide supplier of premium workwear, branded clothing, and promotional merchandise.

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Whether you’re a small business with a team of 2–3 people or a nationwide organisation employing over 5,000 staff, we have the experience, capacity, and expertise to deliver an exceptional service tailored to your requirements.d

L-R Anathasia & Lacey were the first to receive these new quality sashes from NxtGen at the recent East Midlands qualifyer

All embroidery and printing is completed in-house by our experienced team, allowing us to maintain the highest quality standards, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround times from concept to delivery.

From workwear and uniforms to promotional merchandise and branded apparel, we’re here to bring your brand to life.

We’d love the opportunity to provide you with FREE, no-obligation visual proofs and competitive quotations for your next project.

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The search is on to find the next Miss England finalist from the East Midlands, with the regional competition being organised by reigning Miss England, Grace Richardson, ahead of her departure to represent England at the 75th Miss World  final in line with  her Beauty with a Purpose Project ” Every Drop Counts” 

The competition will feature an ethical fashion round with We Do Ethical creating the theme of “Oceans on the Edge” for contestants to follow.

Contestants from Leicester, Derby, Nottingham and towns across the East Midlands have entered the competition, with a shortlisted group now preparing to compete for a coveted place in the Miss England 2026 National Final.

The event takes place at The Pumping Station, Cropston, where contestants will compete in a series of rounds celebrating confidence, personality and purpose.

As part of the competition, contestants will also be raising funds for the Vayyu Foundation, the charity at the heart of Grace Richardson’s Beauty with a Purpose project, which she will proudly showcase while representing England at Miss World.

Among this year’s contestants are a teacher, hairdresser, GP receptionist, a Barista and student and fashion merchandiser, highlighting the diverse range of women competing for the regional title.

The one-day event includes Miss England’s signature Ethical Fashion round, promoting sustainable fashion choices, alongside the popular Bare Face Top Model round, which encourages contestants to embrace natural beauty and self-confidence without make-up.

In keeping with the ethos of the Bare Face round, all contestants are invited to attend the competition make-up free before taking to the stage. The contestants will also receive gifts from The Acne Brand, which is supporting the event in association with the competition.

Grace Richardson said:

“I’m so excited to welcome this year’s East Midlands contestants. Miss England is about so much more than appearance – it’s about confidence, kindness, making a difference in your community and using your platform for good. I’m looking forward to seeing who will join me at the Miss England Final at the Athena later this year.”

The show begins at 6.30pm at The Pumping Station, Cropston, and members of the public are welcome to attend and support the contestants.

Tickets are available here:
https://www.thepumpingstation.co.uk/event/miss-england-midlands-regional-final/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAb21jcAS8hg1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAafrmbdWdL8R7Cajux0OVviVOVDbksujDD4_ORpPPy7MzK-a5g3P9eoF2mAScQ_aem_gfb8z_eVJUC1QRXdh8ONzQ

Nha Trang, Vietnam, will host the final week and the Final Show of Miss World’s 75th Anniversary Edition.

The 120 Beauty With a Purpose ambassadors from around the world will arrive in the vibrant coastal city on August 29, 2026, ahead of a week of activities, challenges, and celebrations. The final show, broadcast globally, will take place on September 5, when more than 20,000 spectators are expected to witness the magic live.

Located on Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, picturesque islands, and year-round tropical climate. Often referred to as one of Southeast Asia’s premier seaside destinations, the city combines natural beauty with modern infrastructure, luxury resorts, rich cultural heritage, and a welcoming atmosphere. From its famous bay and vibrant waterfront to historic landmarks such as the Po Nagar Cham Towers, Nha Trang offers an unforgettable setting for the culmination of Miss World’s landmark 75th Anniversary celebrations.

Geleximco, the Diamond Sponsor of Miss World’s 75th Anniversary Edition, is proud to support Miss World’s celebration, and event co-produced by the Miss World Organization (MWO) and Sen Vàng Entertainment.

For the latest news about Miss World visit www.missworld.com

Cheshire fashion student, Miss Lancashire and Miss Englands Top fundraiser Tabitha Bennett , her mother Vicky Bennett and the Miss England Director  Angie Beasley have been recognised at the prestigious 10th Annual World Book of Records Anniversary Awards, held in the Members’ Lounge at the Houses of Parliament.

Tabitha, who was crowned Miss England 2025 Beauty with a Purpose Top Fundraiser for raising £11,000 for charity and finished as 4th Runner-Up in the Miss England national final, attended the celebration alongside her mum, Vicky Bennett. 

Vicky, Tabitha’s mum is no stranger to the pageant world. During the 1980s, she won more than 100 beauty pageant titles, becoming one of Britain’s most successful beauty queens of her era. In recognition of both her remarkable achievements and the unwavering support she has given to Tabitha throughout her fundraising journey, World Book of Records also presented Vicky with a special award during the Parliament celebration.

The event also saw Miss England Director Angie Beasley honoured with an award recognising more than 30 years of dedication to empowering women through the pageant industry. Since becoming a national competition organiser for Miss World in 1996 , Angie has seen hundreds of young women develop confidence, careers and charitable initiatives, while modernising the competition to place greater emphasis on purpose, achievement and community service.  

Angie said: “It was a tremendous honour to see both Tabitha and her mum, Vicky, & me recognised at Parliament. I remember Vicky’s incredible success in the pageant world during the 1980s as I used to compete in many of the same pageants!  Vicky won over 100 beauty titles, so to now see her daughter following in her footsteps while making such a remarkable difference through charity is truly inspiring. Seeing all of us recognised for using our platforms was a very proud and memorable moment.”

The Miss England organisation was invited to the Houses of Parliament in recognition of its humanitarian work, following years of charitable initiatives both in the UK and overseas. Since 2019, the organisation has travelled annually to India in partnership with BOPA,  (British Organisation of People of Asian Origin) visiting schools, colleges and orphanages, supporting community projects, and raising funds for a range of charitable causes through its Beauty with a Purpose programme the Ethos of the Miss World contest. 

Beauty with a Purpose was founded by Julia Morley, CEO of Miss World. Created as the philanthropic core of the Miss World pageant, the initiative empowers contestants to use their talents to raise funds and support sick and disadvantaged children globally. Over the past five decades, the program has grown to support projects in more than 142 countries & raised millions of dollars across the world. 

The celebration took place on the hottest day of the year so far and brought together councillors, community leaders and VIP guests from across the UK along with many doctors and health workers & businesses from India to celebrate individuals making a positive difference in their communities.

During the event, Tabitha spoke about her successful “Lunch with a Purpose” charity event, organised last September in support of Maggie’s. Working closely with her local community, she secured an impressive selection of raffle prizes, including a signed cricket bat donated by Freddie Flintoff, helping her raise an incredible £11,000 for the charity.

Tabitha said “ It was an absolute privilege to be invited and recognised for such a rewarding achievement. A day at the House of Commons I will remember forever!  Thank you to the incredible world book of records organisation for their kindness and generosity.” 

The Beauty with a Purpose round has become one of the Miss England competition’s most important awards, with contestants collectively raising thousands of pounds every year for charities and community projects across England and beyond.

Santosh Shukla, CEO, World Book of Records stated “World Book of Records is committed to recognising individuals whose dedication, compassion, and perseverance create a meaningful impact on society. Tabitha Bennett’s exceptional fundraising efforts and Miss England’s  commitment to charitable causes embody the values of service and social responsibility. We are delighted to honour these achievements at the UK Parliament and wish both Tabitha and the  Miss England contest continued success in inspiring communities through humanitarian work.”

Following her success in Miss England  last year as Miss Lancashire, Tabitha is now setting her sights even higher. She hopes to qualify once again for the Miss England 2026 Grand Final by competing in the Miss England North West Beauty Awards, with the ambition of going one step further by winning the Miss England crown at the Athena in Leicester on November 17th  and representing England at the 76th Miss World Festival in Tanzania in May 2027.

Applications for the Miss England North West Beauty Awards are now open. Anyone dreaming of representing the North West at Miss England is invited to complete the entry form on the Miss England website before the end of July for the chance to win the regional title and progress to the national final.

ENDS

ABOUT WORLD BOOK OF RECORDS 

World Book of Records is an organization that catalogs and verifies extraordinary records across the world with authentic certification in United Kingdom and Europe. WBR is working with global presence in America, Africa, Asia and Australia.

For more details visit ; https://worldbookofrecords.uk/ 

ABOUT MISS WORLD BEAUTY WITH A PURPOSE 

https://www.missworld.com/beauty-with-a-purpose 

ABOUT MISS ENGLAND’S BEAUTY WITH A PURPOSE 

https://www.missengland.info/beauty-with-a-purpose/ 

For more information and photos from the event please contact 

[email protected]

Images excluding Audience image – Anfice Photography 

The Miss England Grand Final is officially returning to Athena Leicester on Tuesday 17th November 2026, marking an exciting homecoming after a 14-year absence.

The decision follows the incredible success of Leicester performing arts student Grace Richardson, who captured both the prestigious Miss England Talent Award and the Miss England 2025 title in November 2025. Now preparing to represent England at the 75th Miss World in Vietnam, Grace will return to the city where her journey comes full circle as she crowns her successor.

The Athena is in the Cultural Quarter of Leicester – pictured is Grace dressed in a beautiful red showgirl costume from the Ann Oliver School of Dance

Athena has a proud place in Miss England history, having previously hosted the national final in 2006, 2007 and 2012. Since then the final has been held across England at Venues in Torquay, Southport , Birmingham , Newcastle and for the past two years Wolverhampton. 

This November, Grace will hand over her crown in spectacular style. Living out her dream of becoming a West End performer, she will appear along side talented performers from the Ann Oliver School of Dance.

To celebrate the return of the Miss England Final to Leicester, a special photoshoot with Anfice Photography was organised by Angie Beasley, Director of Miss England since 2002, during the West End Day Party at the Athena.  Grace, dressed as a glamorous showgirl, was warmly welcomed onto the stage by the event’s DJ and introduced Grace to the audience who wished her well in Miss World and post for a group photo ! 

Grace was invited on stage at the West End Day Party held recently at the Athena Leicester with Emily Olive Boyd and James Richard Turner

“Grace received a wonderful reception from everyone at the West End Day Party event,  her real dream is to perform on the West End stage ,” said Angie Beasley. “She met two talented West End singers, Emily Olive Boyd and James Richard Turner at the event who wished Grace every success at the 75th Miss World in Vietnam. We are delighted to be returning to Athena after all these years.”

Grace will sing live at the Grand Final and dance alongside some of her fellow performing arts students making the evening a true celebration of talent, entertainment and Beauty with a Purpose , the ethos of the competition.  

Grace said “”I couldn’t be more excited to be crowning my successor in Leicester!  It means so much to bring the Miss England Grand Final back here after 14 years and to celebrate everything this incredible city has to offer.  As a Musical Theatre performer who has grown up in Leicester, I’m especially proud that we’ll also be showcasing some of the amazing students from The Ann Oliver Stage School. It’s going to be a truly special night, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.”. 

The Miss England 2026 Grand Final promises to be a spectacular red carpet event and one not to be missed.

Booking tickets early is advisable and tickets can be purchased on this link – 

VIP TABLES with reception drink and dinner is limited 

https://buytickets.at/missenglandlimited/2237502 

ENDS

PLEASE CREDIT ; Photo by Anfice Photography for usage 

NOTE TO EDITOR

The reigning Miss England is Leicester performing arts student Grace Richardson who will be representing England at the 75th Miss World in Vietnam . 

The Miss England Final will include an Ethical Fashion and Talent round with a series of qualifying rounds held in the lead up to the event including a Beauty with a Purpose fundraising competition , a make up free, sports and tourism round where national finalists will promote their homes towns and cities!  The winner will go forward to the Miss World Beauty with a Purpose final in May 2027 set to be held in Tanzania . 

Miss World will celebrate its 76th year in 2027 For further details please see www.missworld.com 

To interview the Miss England organiser Angie Beasley or Grace Richardson please email 

[email protected] 

About the Athena 

Originally designed in 1936, Athena is an art deco landmark in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter and truly the region’s most unique events venue. 

For further details https://www.athenacb.co.uk/about-us/

Backstage with Emily & James wished Grace a good luck at Miss World in Vietnam this summer

in association with media partners ( click the logo) 

Miss England Semi Final 2026: Celebrating Beauty with a Purpose

Held at the Melton Theatre , Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, this year’s semi-final showcases a diverse and talented line-up of contestants, all proudly wearing their Miss England Semi Finalist sashes as they take one step closer to the prestigious national final. As a special highlight this year , the Mr England competition will also be held to find the next male winner!

A Platform for Purpose

Miss England has long stood for more than just a title. With its alignment to the Miss World “Beauty with a Purpose” ethos, the competition empowers contestants to make a real difference in their communities.

Each semi-finalist brings her own story — from charity fundraising and academic achievements to advocacy work and career ambitions. Together, they represent the next generation of strong, driven women making an impact across England.

Style, Confidence & Diversity

Dressed elegantly in black and united by their iconic red sashes in this image, the 2025 semi-finalists embodies confidence and individuality. The next event will highlight not only their personal style but also their poise, presentation, and stage presence — key qualities required to progress to the next stage of the competition.

The semi-final is an important moment for contestants to:

• Present themselves to judges
• Share their personal journeys
• Demonstrate confidence and communication skills
• Showcase their commitment to meaningful causes
• The reigning Miss England Grace Richardson , a performing arts student from Leicester will make a special guest performance at the event.
• The next Mr England contest will be held

The Road to the Final

With competition stronger than ever, only a select number of contestants will progress to the Miss England Final, where they will compete for the coveted crown and the opportunity to represent England on the global stage at Miss World in Tanzania in May 2027. 

For many, this experience is about far more than winning — it’s about personal growth, building confidence, and becoming part of a supportive and empowering network.

Looking Ahead

As the Miss England Semi Final 2026 unfolds as it draws near, excitement will continue to build for what promises to be an unforgettable event. With talent, passion, and purpose at its core, the competition remains a powerful platform for young  people to shine.

Stay tuned on social media as we follow the journey of these incredible semi-finalists — and discover who will take the next step towards becoming the next Miss England.

Follow the journey:
📱 Keep up with updates on the Miss England App
🌐 Visit: www.missengland.info
📸 Follow @missenglandlimited on instagram for regular updates

#MissEngland #BeautyWithAPurpose #MissEngland2025 #PageantLife #WomenEmpowerment

The Dover Marina Hotel & Spa, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, rolled out the red carpet this Bank Holiday weekend as it welcomed reigning Miss England, Grace Richardson, for a special guest stay at its iconic seafront location overlooking the English Channel.

The hotel rolled out the red carpet for Grace Richardson the reigning Miss England

The beautiful suite where Grace and her guest stayed overlooking the sea

Grace, a 21-year-old performing arts student and environmental advocate, enjoyed a well-earned spa break at the seafront hotel, experiencing its renowned hospitality, wellness facilities, and culinary offerings.

Grace couldnt resist a selfie in the gym at the Dover Marina hotel – shes currently training for the Miss World Sportsround

During her stay, Grace enjoyed a range of wellness experiences, from relaxing spa treatments and time in the hotel’s fitness facilities to a bespoke hair treatment at the on-site Vogue Hair & Beauty, before dining at Mr White’s English Chophouse alongside her guest.

Grace enjoyed the luxury Hotels Spa facilities

The highlight of the weekend saw Grace take to the spotlight, delivering a special live performance for guests during Saturday evening dinner.

Speaking about her stay, Grace shared:
“The break was just what I needed ,its been a busy time recently for me juggling my performing arts studies with the role of Miss England , now I feel refreshed and ready to go.”

Grace was invited to sing at dinner for guests at the Dover Marina hotel during her stay

Grace added:
“I loved the experience and the hospitality. I stayed in a beautiful room with a balcony overlooking the sea and all the facilities within the hotel– it was truly stunning. I hope to come back one day soon.”

Grace documented moments from her visit on social media, sharing highlights with her growing audience and the official Miss England platforms, giving followers a glimpse into the hotel’s luxurious setting and vibrant atmosphere.

The visit comes at an exciting time for Grace, who is preparing to represent England at the 75th Anniversary of Miss World, taking place in Vietnam from 9th August to 5th September 2026. The international competition will see contestants from across the globe compete in a series of challenges including the prestigious Talent and Sports rounds, alongside the organisation’s renowned Beauty with a Purpose initiatives.

The beautiful restaurant at the Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Grace enjoying the hotels facilities with Mr. Kanagaratnam Rajaseelan Managing Director the Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Grace’s stay at Dover Marina Hotel & Spa reflects the continued collaboration between Miss England and leading UK hospitality venues, showcasing the very best of British destinations ahead of her journey to the global stage, with Dover’s seafront setting offering a distinctive backdrop to the experience.

For more information about the hotel click the logo or visit

For media enquiries, collaborations or partnership opportunities, please contact:

[email protected]
www.missengland.info