Would-be contestants to the Miss Isle of Man competition are invited to meet the team behind the event.

Applications to be a finalist close at midnight on Friday (March 31).

The charity event aims to find 12 outgoing and community-minded young women to raise money for 12 worthy local causes. Organisers insist this is no beauty pageant. ’No bikinis, no objectification - just hard work and lots of fun!’, they say.

Those thinking of taking part are invited to The Tea Junction in Castle Street, Douglas, tonight (Wednesday) between 5.30-7.30pm when the team will be there to answer any questions and explain what’s involved.

The organisers said: ’We’ve already received some fabulous applications from young women who are keen to take part and do something really special for our 12 chosen charities.

’We’ve heard from people who are looking to break the stereotype of "beauty" pageants. We know there are still many young women out there who haven’t yet signed up, maybe because they’re worried about how others may perceive them.

’Don’t let your fears stand in the way.’