A St Albans woman is representing her home city in the final of this year’s Top Model UK competition.

Leanna Anscomb of Sparrowswick Ride will go head to head with 26 other women as she vies to be crowned Top Model in the over 25 category model search campaign.

The 32-year-old said she decided to enter the competition to set herself a challenge.

She said: "I went through a phase, where I wanted to set myself a challenge, purely for me.

"Being a mum is hard work. As much as it is rewarding, it is a 24/7 job and sometimes it can feel like everyday is a groundhog day.

"I think I look okay for my age and if I was going to do anything about it, I might as well do it now, before it is too late."

Mrs Anscomb has two daughters, Reese, 6 and Lydia, 2.

After sending off a natural photo of herself, as well as a swimwear shot, Mrs Anscomb was invited to audition in London.

It was here the judges tested Mrs Anscomb, who works part time in St Albans jewellers Kingshill, to strut her stuff across the catwalk.

The mother-of-two said: "We were asked to walk in front of everybody.

"I was really nervous because I haven’t done anything like this before. I was scared about falling over in front of everyone."

Despite the nerves, Mrs Anscomb was pleased to be selected for the grand finale, which will take place at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel on April 4 and 5.

On reaching the finals, Mrs Anscomb added: "I’m really excited and feeling fairly confident.

"I intend to put in a lot of practice. If you’re going to do something, you’ve got to do it properly.

"I am really excited at the moment, but nearer the time I’m sure I’ll be really nervous and the week before I might need some yoga lessons."

Mrs Anscomb, is now on a fundraising mission to raise money for the charity, Children with Cancer UK, as part of the competition.

She has organised a charity ball to take place in St Michael’s Manor on March 23 and is inviting residents and local businesses to get involved.

Mrs Anscomb added: "I couldn’t think of a better charity to raise money for.

"Everyone is really excited and looking forward to it. I would like to think my family are proud of me.

"At the moment I am just focused on fundraising and drumming up support from local businesses, who wouldn’t mind helping me fundraise.

"As I am representing St Albans, I am really keen to involve my home town. "

For more information contact Mrs Anscomb on leanna.ward@sky.com.