A Bristol woman said she feels 'mermazing' after winning a competition which means she can become a 'full time' mermaid.
Lisa Stelljes - or Mermaid Roo as she is better known - has just been crowned Miss Mermaid Ireland and will now travel to Egypt where she will face scores of other women dressed as the mythical sea creatures as they compete for the world title.
To achieve the feat , the 23-year-old, from Withywood, had to prove how far she could swim underwater using just one breath - which was an impressive 120 metres.
The assistant bar manager also took part in an underwater photo-shoot and walked down a catwalk in her swimwear. There was an online voting element as well, which meant Lisa had to recruit her friends and family to back her.
Lisa stumbled across the bizarre competition after Googling 'how to be a full time mermaid'.
"I know it's an unusual thing to look up but I love anything that is magical," said Lisa. "Ever since I was three and I watched the Little Mermaid, I've always loved them."
Lisa admits the thrill of wearing the special outfit was partly down to escapism.
She said: "There's something so wonderful about being able to walk and swim.
"You can do anything - be part of a different world.
"I love dressing up as one and seeing the beautiful smiles on little kids' faces when they see you - it's brilliant."
She added: "I feel mermazing about winning. I was so honoured when I was chosen to represent Ireland, for my nan's heritage and just to be able to be a full time mermaid is more than I could ever imagine."
When Lisa is not working at the George and Dragon, she digs out her colourful fin and puts on her bikini top, hunting for more people to like her Facebook page - because she will need lots of supporters to vote for her to secure the international title.
She is also hired to attend events dressed as the mythical sea creature and even drives a car plastered in stickers of mermaids and other marine life.
She will travel to Egypt in March for the finals.
You can follow her Instagram account here.
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