Miss Newcastle 2019 finalists - meet the girls in the running for this year's crown

It's almost time for a new host of girls to hit the catwalk as the final of Miss Newcastle 2019 takes place in the city this weekend.

The annual event is always a massive spectacle for the whole of the North East and now 13 contestants are aiming to steal the crown and follow in the footsteps of reigning Miss Newcastle Rebecca Gormley, who triumphed in an Arabian Nights themed finale last year.

Over 300 hopefuls applied this year and Gainford Group are one again hosting the glamorous grand finale at The County Hotel and before they've even taken to the runway for the first time, the 2019 finalists have already raised in excess of £20,000 for chosen charity The Chronicle Sunshine Fund, thanks to events ranging from dog walks to fashion shows and bag packs to pamper days.

A celebration of Style, Beauty & Talent... this year's final, hosted by Hannah Gray, draws inspiration from Aphrodite the Greek Goddess of Beauty & Love and will feature a performance from Ami Vaziri as Ariana Live.

The winner will receive a place in the Miss England final as well as a contract with Tyne Tyne Models'

And in an exciting week for the city, it was also revealed that the Miss England finals will be held in Newcastle for the first time.