Morecambe has the ex-factor!

BEAUTY parade: Carol Richmond, aged 21, represents Oldham in 1968

The iconic Midland Hotel in Morecambe has been searching for Oldhamer Carol Richmond, who entered the Miss Great Britain contest there as a 21 year old in 1968.

The hotel was recently given a set of photos showing competitors and judges at the event and Matt Stanaway, the hotel manager, is putting the pictures on the hotel website for nostalgia’s sake.

The recently-refurbished Midland — an internationally-renowned art deco classic building on the seafront, is also offering a free night’s stay at the hotel to any of the women in the photos.

Mr Stanaway said: “The Miss Great Britain contests are an important part of Morecambe’s heritage.

“We thought it would be a great idea to try and find some of the contestants and bring them back to rekindle some happy memories.”

The Chronicle tracked down Carol White — as she now is — in Diggle and she’s delighted at the opportunity to meet up with former contestants.

The Miss Great Britain competition was held in Morecambe from 1956-1989. Carol, now in her 60s, was in the top 16 that year.

“If you won or came second or third, it was like getting a whole week’s wages so it was well worth it,” she laughed.

“I had to do a speech and I remember panicking a lot. They asked me a set of stupid questions and the judges were very strict!

“I think it’s great the hotel is offering a free stay. I hope the other girls will turn up too; it would be great to see them all.”