Could these Men of Gwent be Mr Wales?

The men will join 26 others from across the country at this year’s final on July 18 at Cardiff International Arena.

As well as being interviewed by a panel of judges contestants will strut their stuff on the catwalk in three categories including Welsh wear, swim wear and evening wear.

The winner will receive a modelling contract with Vibe Models as well as travelling to Australia and Lapland with the competition’s chosen charity The Joshua Foundation.

Last year’s competition raised £75,000 for the charity, which helps children with terminal cancer.

This year's Gwent finalists are:

Luke Bolwell-Williams, 23, is a care home worker from Blackwood.
“Finding the confidence to apply was hard but one of my friends was a finalist from 2008 and he gave me the final push. I’m trying to gain as much positive experience as possible and participating in the competition is something exciting to “tell the grandchildren” when I’m older and it’s good fun.”

Lee Cartwright, 23, a carpenter, from, Newbridge.
“My girlfriend found out about the competition and entered me in it. Then I applied online in November. My main hopes from the competition are to raise money for charity and to win.”

Duncan Culley, 20, of Rogerstone, Newport, is a student.
“I think the reason I applied was love of my country. I know it sounds a bit corny but the chance to represent my country and become the face of Wales were the main attractions of the experience. I have some friends who took part in Miss Wales and they said they had great fun, so I though why not?”

Alexander Fudge, 26, an art teacher from Llanyravon, Cwmbran.
“My Mum wanted me to enter the competition a few years ago. I suppose I lacked the confidence to do it. But this year I thought why not? I hope to gain knowledge and experience of the backstage area and preparations involved in modelling.”

Luke Philips, 26, from Caldicot, is a firefighter and office worker for Swalec.
“I entered the competition last year and I am going for gold this year. I hope to raise the benchmark, I really enjoy a challenge. I want to open up new experiences and potential, possibly in modelling. I really want to give back to the community and help out charities.”