And that gorgeous young woman is 21-year-old Laura MacFarlane of East Wemyss.

Laura was one of the first people to enter the competition and was a popular choice for the final 20.

However, it was thanks to the readers of The Fife Free Press that she emerged as the winner of the prestigious title.

We were inundated with hundreds of votes for all 20 finalists and the result was in doubt right up until the last day. But at the final count, Laura was ahead of the rest and is now looking forward to taking part in a real fashion shoot this afternoon (Thursday).

The former St Andrew's High School pupil said: "I've never done any modelling before but I've always wanted to try it out. I'm really happy to have won and my family are so pleased for me.

"I'm looking forward to getting my hair and make-up done professionally and taking part in a real life fashion shoot, getting a portfolio at the end of it will help me pursue a career in modelling."

Laura currently works in New Look in Leven but is set to start a fashion business course at Adam Smith College next month.

She lives at home with her parents and two younger brothers and was thrilled so many people voted for her.

She added: "I'd really like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for me, I am so happy about the whole thing."

Around 120 hopeful women (and one man) entered the competition, which has been running since May, and which offered some amazing prizes for the winner.

Laura's hair is going to be styled by top Kirkcaldy hairdresser Migele Experience who will ensure her tresses look good for the shoot.

And make-up artist to the stars, Karen Bowen - who has worked with celebrities such as Lorraine Kelly and Fiona Phillips - will be doing Laura's make-up.

The photo shoot and portfolio will be carried out by experts Catch Photography - who have years of photographic experience.

However, Laura will also get a year's worth of L'Oréal haircare products, as well as a great mini cruise for two to the west coast of Norway thanks to DFDS Seaways.

The clothes for the shoot will be courtesy of Desire by Debenhams in Kirkcaldy.

• Check back next week for an exclusive look at Laura's special day - in pictures and on video!