A BARRY college girl who has represented Wales at the high jump will be swapping the athletics track for the catwalk this week - as she battles it out with a host of other beauties to be crowned Miss Bikini World.

Jenny Wade, who is 18 and from Gibbonsdown, flew out this week to Taiwan to compete in the international modelling competition.

The Barry College student was discovered by former model Kirstie Howells, who now runs the Face Model Agency, based on Cardiff Road.

Jenny, who is studying sports science, said: "I'm doing alright.

"I've got a really great family behind me and Kirstie has been amazing. She is brilliant and has been a major help."

Jenny was spotted outside Barry's Peacocks store on her 17th birthday last year.

She said: "Kirstie came up to me, introduced herself and asked whether I would be interested in modelling.

"I did say I was an athlete - but she said that I could do both!

"All of my friends and family are really proud," added Jenny.

"I have a very patriotic family and with representing Wales in athletics and modelling, they are like Oh my God'."

Kirstie, who founded Face, said: "I really think she's got what it takes to reach the top.

"We've got big plans for her and I'm sure she will be a huge success."

l Face Model Agency is looking for young women aged between 18 and 25 to compete for Miss Tourism and Miss Bikini World 2007. The competition is being held in South Africa, all expenses paid. If you think you've got what it takes then please post your photograph and contact details to Face. Their address can be found at www.facemodelmanagement.co.uk or you can call their offices on 01446 719624.