BY day she takes potentially life-saving phone calls in her role as a volunteer for the Samaritans.

Now Grace Levy is taking the plaudits of people from across the county after she was crowned the new Miss Hampshire.

The 22-year-old fought off competition from 11 other women – including air hostesses, sport coaches and beauty therapists – in the hotly contested final.

They had to impress a panel of judges at Southampton’s WestQuay shopping centre, including current Miss England Alize Mounter.

Psychology graduate Grace, from Titchfield, was delighted at being crowned the winner.

“I couldn’t believe it,” she said.

“I’ve entered a few beauty pageants but never won, so to come first is the most amazing feeling.

“I’m so proud, not only of myself but everyone who has supported me, like my family and friends.

“It was such a tough heat and I really didn’t think I was going to win.”

Grace will now represent Hampshire in the final of the prestigious Miss England contest, which takes place in Leicester on June 26.

She also wins a modelling contract from organisers Front Models and a designer dress from Casey Paul Styling.

Lymington student Georgina Rickman, 20, won a place at the Miss England semi-finals after coming second, while 18-year-old beauty therapist Jordan Walker finished third.