A philosophy student from Upminster is hoping that her modelling dreams can come true in a national competition.

Alexandra Cadman is a finalist in the Top Model UK professional model search – having been selected from a field of more than 4,000.

The 20-year-old is in her first year studying religion, philosophy and ethics at King’s College, London, but hopes that she can achieve modelling stardom next month.

The former Coopers’ Company and Coborn School pupil said: “It’s been a dream of mine since I was about 15 I was always watching America’s Next Top Model.

“It’s something I feel comfortable with – last year I was chosen for Oxford Fashion Week, I wasn’t nervous I was really excited to do it.”

A panel of judges select the winners of the competition at a central London hotel next month.