A STALYBRIDGE woman is celebrating after being named Miss Manchester GB.
But Clare Hopwood’s success carries a much more important message than just she is good looking.
The farm girl, who was out in the yard clearing up cow muck the day after her victory, hopes to highlight the issue of mental health among agricultural communities.
The 25-year-old, who lives in Heyrod, will now compete to be named Miss Great Britain after her victory at Manchester’s 235 casino.
Already, she is looking to make more of it, with workshops at the forthcoming Mottram Show to show she is not just your stereotypical beauty queen.
And that message about mental health among people who live in isolated areas like farms is huge.
Clare said: “It’s something that I’ve experienced and lived with.
“I remember when I was a bit younger, I couldn’t really go out because of living in such an isolated area.
“If I did, I’d have to come back in the pitch black, with nothing around.
“Mental health, particularly among farming families, is a much bigger issue than it is made out to be.
“Many think, ‘They’ve got loads of money,’ or ‘They’re doing well,’ but the reality can be very different.
“That’s why I’m so keen to spread the message and highlight the issue.
“Since my win, I’ve received offers to appear elsewhere and I’m more than happy to do that.
“And even the story of me winning tells something about resilience.
“I was encouraged by a lady called Sue Millington to take part, so I entered last year and came fifth.
“This year, I did it again and won the overall title, as well as the Charity Award and Beach Body Award.
“And now I’ve won, I will do what I can to tell that much bigger story.
“Mental health within the agricultural community is a cause that is incredibly close to my heart, and I am passionate about raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and supporting those who may be struggling in silence.
“If I can use this title to make a positive difference in even one person’s life, then I will consider that a success.”
Clare, who is the niece of Tameside Cllr Allan Hopwood, will head to Leicester for the national final after seeing off competition in the Manchester area.
But there was not much time for celebrations. It was soon back to the day job.
“The day after I won, I was out in the farmyard clearing up cow poo,” she revealed.
“My wellies were on. That never stops and I’m proud to be a farm girl.
“I’ll be at Mottram Show, where my granddad used to look after the ground, giving demonstrations and talks.
“And I’m happy to speak to anyone to raise the issues close to my heart.”
Many people’s image of beauty pageants is all tiaras and teeth, but there was much more that went into Clare’s victory.
She had to tell who she is and with such a convincing background – which can be proved by donning her wellies and shovel – the judges were wowed.
And officially being Miss Manchester GB is proving a thrill as she told The Correspondent: “This means more to me than I can truly put into words.
“What makes this journey so meaningful isn’t just the titles or awards, but the people I’ve met, the lessons I’ve learned, and the support I’ve received along the way.
“I’m determined to use this platform for something bigger than myself.
“I am so proud to represent Manchester and excited for everything that lies ahead. For me, this crown is not just an achievement – it’s an opportunity to create change, inspire others, and give back to the communities that have shaped me.
“This is only the beginning, and I cannot wait to see where this journey takes me.”