COMPETING in Miss Wales is a far cry from ward rounds and anatomy books.

But for medical student Victoria Carlin, the honour of representing her country is the spur for her to take part in the Miss Wales final at Jumpin' Jaks, Swansea, tomorrow.

Victoria, 21, from Langstone, is one of six Gwent women in the final who all have the aim of walking away with the coveted tiara and a chance to compete in Miss World.

Victoria, in her third year studying medicine at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, said: "I am nervous about the final but excited, too.

"I have been looking at dresses and outfits to wear on the day. It's my first time doing anything like this, so it's hard to decide what's best.

"It will be a great feeling to win and such an honour to represent Wales, but if I don't, then I can move on."

Catherine Pope, 19, is also a student at Cardiff University. This year is the first time she has entered the competition.

She said: "I am really, really pleased and everyone is happy for me." She said that as the competition is drawing near, her nerves are kicking in.

"When it started I was enjoying the fun of meeting the girls but it's getting close now and I would love to win."

Ismene Cole, 19, is taking creative studies, English and drama at Bath University, and lives in Magor.

She has mixed reactions about the final. She said: "I'm really excited but at the same time really nervous. It's a great feeling being a finalist for Miss Wales and I will be very happy if I win, but if I lose it doesn't matter."

Charlotte Davies is studying at the London Studio Centre arts college, and wants to be an actress.

She said: "I decided to enter this year to see how I got on, and I am very pleased and excited."

Helen Batley, 20, from Usk, wants to become a model. She said she entered too late last year, so was pleased to get through.

She said: "I have wanted to do this since I was a little girl. This is my ultimate dream. I am getting nervous now, but it's been great fun."

Rachel Rice, 20, from Cwmbran, is hoping that this will be her year after being runner-up in last year's Miss Wales.

She said:"I am nervous even though I have been to a final, but I am looking forward to it."

The prize package includes a shopping trip to New York, clothes, shoes and beauty products, and the chance to compete in Miss World.