A HAWICK mum of four who was seriously injured in a hot air balloon accident in Florida 12-years ago has reached the national final of the Miss British Isles Elegance 2022 Modelling Competition.
Tracey Campbell (41) was chosen by a panel of judges to represent the Borders against finalists from across the British Isles on September 9 at The Crown Plaza Hotel in Chester.
The judges looked through the huge number of entries before selecting the 30 finalists who will compete for a modelling and promotional contract with photo shoots in Marbella and other fantastic prizes.
Tracey, who is originally from London now lives in Hawick with fiancé Phil who is also her carer and four children, Aidan (19), Frega (14), Bradley (13) and Lainee (9).
In 2012 she suffered severe life changing injuries to her spine when a hot air balloon fell from the sky which means she still has difficulties walking.
But she is determined to bring the title back to the town and send out a message to others in a similar position.
She said: “It all happened so quickly. I put some photographs on Instagram and they proved to be popular then I saw the advert for the competition and decided to enter.
“It’s so surreal to be presented with this opportunity at 41 with a disability and I am a bit nervous but also proud. I will give it my all to bring the crown back to the Borders.
“If I won it would be such a good message to send out. It doesn’t matter what restrictions on capabilities or lack of capabilities you have or what age you are, if you want something then go for it. Life’s too short.”
Tracey previously worked in aviation security, as a qualified travel agent and is now as a full-time mum, whilst studying counselling and law. Her hobbies include reading, travelling, experiencing different cultures, meditation and spirituality.
Previous winners of Miss British Isles organised events have gone on to be signed by top modelling agencies, taken part in major TV shows and even appeared in a Bollywood film.
The Miss and Mr British Isles finals take place over three days in September.
The Miss titles include Little, Junior, Junior Teen, Teen, Miss, Elegance and Classic and there is also a Mr British Isles competition.
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