A Holland Park radio DJ who decided to enter the Miss England competition before she was too old has made it through to the semi-finals.

Lexie Carducci qualified from the first round after impressing judges and getting support from fans.

The Wandsworth Radio presenter is now through to the semi-finals of both Miss England and Miss London.

The 24-year-old said: “It’s really exciting. There’s quite a few rounds in the semi finals so I have all these ideas about what I’m going to do.”

Among the challenges she must face is raising money for Miss England’s official charity Beauty With A Purpose, and also an eco round, where she must design an eco-friendly dress.

Miss Carducci had toyed with entering the competition for several years and finally took the plunge before she passed the age limit of 25 .

She said: “I can’t believe I’ve made it this far. Everyone did amazing in the first round and put in so much effort.

“I just entered because I thought this was the year I was going to bite the bullet. I really enjoyed and it’s exciting seeing what’s going to be next.

“It’s really fun, it’s a little adventure.”

Miss Carducci, who also works as a property finder, was given a third reason to celebrate when she was named Miss Torquay, where she grew up, in the absence of a Miss Devon this year.