A NEWPORT professional dancer was crowned Miss Universe Newport this weekend.

Marie Elizabeth Lao, 22, received the title at the final which was held at Cardiff’s City Hall.

The beauty queen was also named Miss Congeniality, a title awarded by the audience to their favourite contestant.

Miss Lao said: "I will be an excellent role model during my tenure as Miss Universe Newport as I am hard-working and dedicated."

Former Miss UK and Miss Wales, Chloe Beth Morgan and Vanda Santos were named runners-up.

All three girls will now compete at the Miss Universe Great Britain event in Birmingham in May.