Dream start for calendar girl Sarah

A RISING star is one step nearer her dream of fame and fortune after beating hundreds of hopefuls to a top modelling prize.

Drama student Sarah Groves, 20, of Peerless Street, Finsbury, was picked from hundreds of fellow hopefuls to become the 2008 calendar girl for top Soho hairstylists Fish.

Sarah, who is currently working hard in her third year at the prestigious Italia Conti drama school, joined three other competition winners at a classy photo shoot with a top fashion photographer for the stylish salon's 2008 calendar.

Sarah, who moved to Islington from Devon two years ago, said: "I was shopping in Leicester Square and just got handed a flyer to become the new face of this hairdresser's in Soho.

"I just thought 'why not'? Four weeks later I got a phone call saying I'd made it through to the last 20. I couldn't believe it."

Shopping-mad Sarah was a clear favourite following an online public vote and soon found herself being styled and made up by cutting-edge stylists at the trendy hairdressers. The models were then put up in a luxury hotel in central London before being put through their paces and were rewarded with a no-expense-spared night on the town.

"I've done modelling for small fashion shows before but this was really professional," said Sarah, who is a big fan of Finsbury's famous nightlife.

"I really like modelling. It comes really naturally to me. I love the photos and it was wicked to get copies of them for my portfolio.

"I'm going to go around a few model agencies - hopefully I'll get some more work out of them."

The popular calendar has already caused a splash and has had over 5,000 downloads. Now Sarah hopes it will help her one her way to achieving her ultimate ambition.

She said: "Hopefully I can break through onto the stage or on TV when I finish my degree - I'd love to go on and do presenting. That would be my number one dream.