THERE were no tiaras for the Gwent girls at Miss Wales 2004 last night - but there were no tears either.

None of the six Gwent lovelies taking part in this year's beauty pageant were placed in the top three.

But the girls didn't seem to mind not winning, all saying they enjoyed taking part.

Amy Guy, 21, from Wrexham, was crowned Miss Wales 2004 at Jumpin' Jaks nightclub in Swansea.

The club was packed with hundreds of people eager to watch the 24 contestants take part in three rounds of competition.

Representing Gwent were students Rachel Rice, 20, and Charlotte Davies, 17, both from Cwmbran; healthcare assistant Helen Batley, 20, from Usk; 19-year-old student Catherine Pope, and 21-year-old student Victoria Carlin, both from Newport; and Ismene Cole from Magor.

They strutted their stuff in three outfits to impress the judging panel, which included Pop Idol finalist Jessica Garlick and former Miss Wales and Miss World Helen Morgan.

Before the girls came out Helen said it was great to be back in Wales.

"This brings back so many memories for me," she said.

"Winning Miss Wales changed my life and I hope it will do the same for these girls."

First up was the Welsh wear round, which was no stranger to our girls having posed for the Argus in Welsh-themed clothes earlier this week.

After that was the evening wear round, followed by the raunchy club wear round.

After the show our girls said they just enjoyed the occasion.

For Rachel Rice it was her third attempt at the Miss Wales crown having finished runner-up last year.

"This year has been the best ever," she said.

"All the girls have been great and it's been such a fun time, so I'm not disappointed."

At 17, Cwmbran's Charlotte Davies was the youngest competitor.

"I thought it would be tough being the youngest but I have had a brilliant time," she said. "I loved the performance, especially the club wear round because I just love dancing."

Catherine Pope said: "It's definitely been an amazing experience."