Published Date:
28 October 2009
MISS WORLD hopeful Laura Patterson has told how her parents are an inspiration and her pet Tammy a talisman as she prepares to head for South Africa in little over a month's time.
The Stoneypath stunner's world has been turned upside down after she emerged triumphant in the Miss Ireland beauty pageant last month.
Consequently the reigning Miss Ireland is presently juggling her part time job in a Waterside supermarket with glamorous model shoots for some of the high street's leading names in Dublin.
And as excitement builds in the North West ahead of the Miss World contest, the talented Londonderry beauty has revealed how her beloved pet Spaniel, Tammy (pictured right) will be her talisman in Johannesburg and how she has a penchant for sharpshooting when she isn't on the catwalk.
In an interview published by the Miss World organisation Laura explained that Tammy - a ten-year-old King Charles tri-colour Spaniel - was a birthday present when the pup was just six weeks old and Laura just nine years old.
The local beauty queen also revealed she loves shooting and attending high octane motoring events when she is not otherwise occupied with mundane matters such as contesting international beauty pageants.
Currently on a sabbatical from her accountancy and law studies at Magee College to afford fulfilment of her duties as Miss Ireland, Laura also revealed that her ultimate ambition is to work in the media; she completed her work experience at the Londonderry Sentinel in 2006.
And she certainly isn't lacking in character and confidence ahead of the South African showdown, which will bring some of the most beautiful women on the planet together under the one roof.
Fearlessness is what you can expect from Laura as she adheres to her personal motto: "Keep the sparkle in your eyes, hunger in your belly and warmth in your heart."
But how has victory in Miss Ireland changed the normal routine?
"I work part time at Tesco express, I've been there for two years," said down-to-earth Laura. "The work itself becomes enjoyable because of the number of regular customers we have, there is a friendly atmosphere between staff and customers.
"I began studies at the University of Ulster last year. I undertook at law and accountancy degree. I'm set to proceed into second year, however, on becoming Miss Ireland, I'm taking a gap year, to allow me to fulfil my duties."
And her preparations for Miss World in South Africa?
"Preparation includes, modelling full time in order to gain as much confidence as possible, keeping on top of my wardrobe, and clothes which will be going to South Africa with me. I'm also getting rest, and seeing my family and friends as much as possible."
She added: "Currently my routine is hectic! I'm travelling to Dublin a lot for modelling jobs and spending time with my family and friends when I can. If I'm in Dublin I leave home at 6am and return home around 8pm."
The former Foyle and Londonderry pupil is looking forward to putting on a sash - and hopefully a crown - in Africa.
"I feel that South Africa is a once in a lifetime experience and I should embrace every moment. I really looking forward to meeting as the other finalists and building relationships with them all, so that we can truly enjoy the Miss World finals," she told the Miss World organisation.
The nineteen-year-old is also confident of establishing a strong rapport with up to 150 other girls in Johannesburg.
"I know we are going to have a fantastic time and remember to love every minute because it is a once in a life time experience. I can't wait to meet you all," she said.
Laura hopes her approachability and dedication and her ability to work with others and respect their views will be help in her Miss World challenge. She said she is also a very sociable person and loves talking to other people.
"To do well at Miss World would mean that I have done my county, family and friends proud. It would mean that all of the support which everyone is giving me is worth while," she said.
Laura said her favourite landmark is the Giant's Causeway in County Antrim and that she cannot live without her mobile phone.
And whilst Duncan Bannatyne - a Scottish entrepreneur who has gained notoriety on a popular BBC television programme called Dragon's Den - is an icon for Laura, it is her parents who are her touchstone.
"My parents, they have allowed me to develop my moral standing, and to be down to earth and as a result I have developed into a strong person who always aims to do the right thing," she said.
Before then she is engaged to appear alongside 120 other finalists in London for a night of International fundraising and world class entertainment in November.
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Last Updated:
28 October 2009 1:02 PM
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Source:
Londonderry Sentinel
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Location:
Waterside