JESSICA Linley didn't ask many friends to come to the finals of Miss England because she wasn't very optimistic.

She never dreamed she'd win the title.

The 21-year-old Lenton law student already juggles a busy schedule as a keen photographer, a finance officer at the University of Nottingham's Athletic Union and treasurer for the university's law society.

But now she's made herself even busier by scooping the coveted beauty title.

Not that she thought it would turn out like this.

"I didn't want many people to go out of their way to be there, because my expectations just weren't very high," said Jessica after being named Miss England at the ceremony in Birmingham.

Her best friend, father and sister didn't go to the presentation.

But Jessica said it was one of the best days of her life.

She added: "It was extremely hectic.

"It was totally worth the stress and one of the greatest days of my life by far."

Jessica is the first girl representing Nottingham to be crowned Miss England since 1993.

She has just finished the first year of her law degree at the University of Nottingham but now intends to take a break from her studies and take on her next challenge – to become Miss World.

"This is a great opportunity," added Jessica.

"The last Miss England was absolutely amazing, so I have a lot to do. Representing my country is what I'll be focusing on from now on."

Jessica will now travel to China for the Miss World contest.

The busy 21-year-old also works part-time at Heart FM and has been taking photographs since she was eight.

Her father, a professional photographer and filmmaker introduced his two daughters to photography.

She initially started doing a theology degree at university and planned to do a law-conversion course but later switched to law and has a clear idea of what she wants in the future.

"I've wanted to become a lawyer from a very early age," added Jessica.

"I always keep my eyes on the end goal. I want to become a solicitor."

Angie Beasley, director of Miss England, said: "Jessica is an all-rounder. She is intelligent, beautiful and an extremely talented photographer.

"I don't think we've ever had someone taking part who is studying to become a solicitor.

"Looking good in a bikini isn't enough anymore to win a beauty contest these days.

"She's taken it all in a stride and been very cool about it all."

She added: "We've never had a competition where everyone is happy with the winner, but everybody likes her."

"I think she has a good chance of becoming Miss World."