Ann Marie Harper makes history at Miss Great Britain

Ann Marie Harper, a 71-year-old from Ayrshire, Scotland, became the oldest contender to reach a national final in the 81-year history of the Miss Great Britain pageant. Competing in the Ms Great Britain Classic category, which is reserved for women aged 45 and over, Harper was recognized with the ‘impact over image’ award.

While she did not place in the top five of her category, Harper expressed enthusiasm for the experience, stating, ‘Being 71 years of age and being there, it was phenomenal.’ She aims to use her platform to promote age positivity, confidence, and visibility for older women, while supporting the charity Clasp, which works to combat loneliness and social isolation among the elderly.

Other winners of the night included Ally Sussex of Surrey in the Classic category, Yazmin McClean of Belfast for Miss Great Britain, and Holly Pirrie of Warrington for Ms Great Britain.