Telford Student who was & paralysed for 4 years has qualified for Miss England

Press release – June 2026

Telford, Shropshire – Nineteen-year-old Elspeth Cadwallader, a student and social media manager from Telford, has been selected as a Semi-Finalist in the prestigious Miss England 2026 competition.

Sponsored by Wills Aesthetics, a personal trainer from the area, Elspeth will be taking part in the semi final at the Melton Theatre Melton Mowbray Leicestershire on Sunday 11th October where the Miss England national finalists will be chosen .

Standing at 5’3″, Elspeth brings determination, resilience, and an inspiring personal story to the competition. Beyond her academic studies and professional work in social media management, she hopes to use the Miss England platform to inspire others facing adversity and to demonstrate that challenges can be overcome with perseverance and positivity.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Elspeth’s journey is her experience of being paralysed for four years between the ages of 10 and 14. Despite this significant challenge, she has shown extraordinary strength and determination, rebuilding her confidence and pursuing her ambitions with passion and purpose.

“Being selected as a Miss England 2026 Semi-Finalist is an incredible honour,” said Elspeth. “I hope to represent not only my hometown of Telford but also anyone who has faced obstacles in life and refused to let them define their future.”

The Miss England competition is one of the UK’s most respected beauty pageants, celebrating intelligence, achievement, community involvement, and personal development alongside beauty. As a Semi-Finalist, Elspeth will compete alongside contestants from across the country for the opportunity to advance to the national finals.

Elspeth is looking forward to embracing the opportunities that the competition offers, including promoting positive messages, building confidence in young people, and supporting causes close to her heart.