A nurse who knows life can be cut short at anytime decided to "go for" it after being scouted for a beauty contest.
Clare Walton, 48, who grew up in Whickham, works as a nurse consultant at a hospice where she cares for patients living and dying with life-limiting illnesses.
After being scouted on social media to take part in Miss British Isles Classic, it was knowing how fragile life is that ultimately resulted in her saying yes.
She said: "The reason I decided to accept is because I am quickly learning as I get older life is incredibly fragile.
"You only get an opportunity to live once and it can be cut short at any time. You just have to go for it."
Clare, who has worked as a MacMillan Clinical Nurse in Hartlepool and Gateshead , and also as a specialist palliative care team leader at St Oswald's Hospice in Gosforth.
But, when she was initially approached to take part via Instagram she thought it was a scam.
She said: "I was messaged on my Instagram a couple of times asking if I wanted to enter but I took no notice of it.
"I thought it was rubbish but I had a look and found an official site.
"I have been entered in the Miss British Isles Classic category along with 20 finalists."
The mum-of-two will represent Newcastle in the Classic event for people aged 45 and over.
Clare, who now lives in Brafferton, County Durham, added: "It was a real compliment, particularly as I am 50 next year."
The event will take place on Saturday at the Crowne Plaza in Chester, with Clare taking to the catwalk in a cocktail and evening dress.
"It is nerve wracking but exciting at the same time," she said. "My hair is being done by Saks in Yarm, who are also sponsoring me along with Clerimis Skin and Beauty."
