British women are competing to be crowned Miss Mermaid UK… and they must have this VERY specific skill to take part
The quirky contest is back for another year of fun
BRITISH women are taking the plunge this weekend as they battle it out to be crowned Miss Mermaid UK.
Today, the unique pageant is being held at Billing Aquadrome in Northampton.
UK entrants are required to be between 18-32 years old, female and be competent in the water.
Many of the competitors undertake a special diving qualification to make sure their efforts go swimmingly.
The reigning Miss Mermaid UK, 25-year-old Grace Page, told the what skills would put you in good stead for the competition.
She said: “If you want to be a professional mermaid it is essential that you train as a free diver and hold a free diving qualification.
“This will allow you to be able to hold your breath for longer periods of time and, more importantly, you will be able to do so safely.”
Winners of the prestigious pageant will be gifted a specially made mermaid tail, a freediving course, a year's contract with Hire A Mermaid UK and the opportunity to represent Britain in Miss Mermaid International.
Competitors are also urged to get stuck into charity work that focuses on marine conservation.
For many, competing in the contest is like a childhood dream come true.
Grace, who is from Reading, admitted: "I’ve always had a passion for singing, and, since a young age I’ve loved having long naturally blonde hair, and the sea fascinates me – so creating a career around actually performing as a mermaid just made so much sense.”
Although many associate the mythical creatures with children, Grace admitted that there is something sensual and alluring about being a mermaid.
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As she often works as parties, it's important for the marine fanatic to keep this side of herself under wraps.
She explained: "You cannot deny the sensuality of mermaids, but you can be both a magical, innocent inspiration for children and an alluring siren; it's all about how you hold yourself.
"My persona, and the aura I give off, is obviously completely different at a children's party than if I'm draped at the side of a pool for 'decoration' at a VIP event."
Mermaid fever has swept Britain this year.
To honour the mythical sirens, Apple added some new emojis into the mix.
And Disney fans are flipping out because Primark is now selling Little Mermaid-inspired home accessories for as little as £1.