A Lowestoft-born model has been crowned Norwich Model of the Year 2015.

Nina Dalziel, 21, came first out of 200 girls in the competition held at the Oaklands Hotel, which was organised by the Kerri Parker Academy.

The regional competition allowed Miss Dalziel, and the runners-up, to automatically win a sponsored place in the final of the London heat – scheduled for the coming months.

Miss Dalziel, who was born in Lowestoft but now lives in Norwich, said: 'It was a big shock as they had called out the top ten and I was included.

'It came to call out the top three and I was thinking in my head 'who would I choose' and then they called out my name.

'There was a huge list of great prizes kindly donated by sponsors, Kelly Mullender of Perfection Beauty Salon was my personal sponsor she did my hair and makeup for the day, my nails to be done by 'Nails by Gemma', Norwich photo shoots, a trip to Spain to shoot for a boutique, my hair to be cut and styled at Fresh Hair in Norwich, and a photo shoot with a London agency.'

Miss Dalziel's mother passed away from cancer three years ago at the age of 56. But she has used this as an inspiration for her success after giving up her studies at the age of 16 to become a full time carer for her mother.

'It has taught me there are no limits; life is too short and is to be enjoyed,' she added.

'I gave up my studies up to look after my mum full time, it was one of the hardest things to deal with.

'I want to raise awareness for young people that are caring for a loved one behind closed doors, to help and support them as much as possible and to help them to take a break to still enjoy themselves; as it is intensely challenging mentally and physically.'

Despite her recent success at the competition held at the end of November, Miss Dalziel aims to complete her studies to become a qualified veterinary nurse but says she dreams of one day modelling for Estée Lauder.

Do you know someone from Lowestoft who has achieved success? Email joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk