An Alsager beauty queen is getting ready to jet off to America for the next leg of the competition after being crowned the best in Europe.

Twenty-nine-year old Cheniel Henderson heads off to Texas soon, hoping to win Young International MS in the next part of the contest.

But the elegant beauty queen will not be forgetting her other passion – working with those involved in domestic violence or the UK, a country she loves.

Cheniel moved to the area last May with her partner, Ryan Clarkstone, to follow his job at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel at Keele.

She said: "I keep looking at my crown from the European contest. It hasn't really hit me yet."

She is busy making a costume for part of the contest which represents culture and in particular the Notting Hill Carnival in London.

"I can't give any clues away but it's a very colourful outfit and does feature purple and green."

Cheniel, a customer care supervisor with Bet 365 in Stoke, who has bought a house in Bainbridge Street, Alsager with her partner, flies out to Texas in June.

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Born in Jamaica, Cheniel moved to the UK at the age of 16 and has been competing in pageants since the age of 13.

Domestic violence is a subject close to her heart and one she champions when she can.

While living in London, she got involved with various charities helping families and she hopes to start this work again since moving to Alsager.

"I want to share my own experiences and help children and families going through this.

For the time being though, Cheniel who works shifts helping people all over the world through her job with Bet365, has her sights firming set on Texas.

"It's going to be so exciting but nerve-wracking at the same time," said Cheniel.

"I'll be going with other people I have already met and I am very much looking forward to it."