DANIEL Chesney is one step closer to securing a top modelling contract, after being crowned the sexiest specs wearer in the North-west.

The 22-year-old marketing co-ordinator from Westhoughton beat off strong competition from 10 bespectacled contestants to win the semi-final of a modelling competition run by Specsavers Opticians.

The decision was made by a panel of judges in Leeds, including Jamie Horridge from top London model agency, Models1. The contestants were judged on their facial features, hair, vitality, personality and overall specs appeal.

Daniel is now preparing for the international final at the Waldorf Hotel in London on May 12, where he will learn to strut his stuff on the catwalk and take on contestants from across Europe.

Daniel said: "It was my sister Emma who decided to put me forward for the competition. I thought it was all a bit of a laugh, but now I can't believe how far I have come.

"The semi-final was a nice experience. We had to wear glasses and the judges decided who was the sexiest spec wearer. I did not expect to win it, so when they told me I was one of the winners it was unbelievable.

"We celebrated by spraying champagne all around Leeds."

Judge and store manager, Sarah Plumpton, said: "It was an extremely tough decision to make because the standard of entries this year was higher than ever before. All the contestants looked fabulous in their new glasses.

"I am delighted that Daniel has won and will go on to represent the North-west at the international final in London. I wish him the very best of luck."

The final will be judged by model and photographer Penny Lancaster, as well as representatives from Models1 and Specsavers. TV presenter Tim Vincent and Capital One DJ Sam Mann will host the event.

If he wins, Daniel will secure a year's modelling contract with Models1, a two-week holiday for two in Mexico, £250, hair and beauty products worth £300 from Avon and Matrix and a Specsavers' eyecare voucher worth £150.

Daniel said: "The final is going to be a whole new kettle of fish. Being a model is miles apart from my day job, and I never thought about doing it before. But now I would love the chance to win and be a model."