Modelling success helps Northumberland woman overcome pub closure disappointment

Sarah Carmichael Kingsley has been named Classic Miss Northumberland 2020 and will now take part in Classic Miss British Isles.

"I’m really looking forward to it,” revealed Sarah. "I’ve never been in a competition my whole life so to be put forward for this and then get to the national finals has given me a bit of a child-like feeling.”

The contest is open to ladies aged 45 and over and Sarah will be required to take part in a catwalk show in front of the judges as well as a studio photo-shoot.

"I’m very proud to be representing Northumberland,” she said.

"I’ll be 50 in November so at this time of my life taking part is good enough for me – but to win would be amazing.”

If she wins, Sarah will receive a cash prize, including a modelling and promotional contract and a number of fashion photo-shoots.

Her return to the catwalk followed the disappointment of a decision with husband, Robert, to put the pub she helped transform with a £1.3m refurbishment on the market.

"The decision to close The Plough on the Hill hit me pretty hard and the return to modelling has really helped me build my confidence back up,” said Sarah.

She is now working as a fashion model and supporting artist for Manchester and London based agencies.

“I started modelling when I was 19 and did it for seven years before going to work at Haggerston Castle and then on to the Plough,” she said.

"After that I thought I would see if there were any opportunities for an old dear who is nearly 50 and surprisingly there was.

"I’ve been really enjoying it. It’s given me the opportunity to go up and down the country.”

She combines the work with running a boutique guest house in Berwick.

She has also recently achieved diplomas in reflexology and Thai foot massage and hopes to gain her final diploma in acupressure soon.

Classic Miss British Isles takes place at The Crown Plaza Hotel in Chester on September 27.

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