Edinburgh University graduate bids to be UK's Next Top Model

Simone Murphy has been modelling since she was two years old.

But little did Simone Murphy know that two decades later, she would be in the running to become Britain’s Next Top Model.

The 23-year-old, who graduated from Edinburgh University with an honours degree in 2014, will feature in the modelling talent show when it launches on Lifetime TV this evening, where she will be competing against 11 other girls for the coveted title.

Her posing techniques will be judged by model Abbey Clancy – a former contestant who was series runner-up – male model Paul Sculfor, who has worked for brands including Giorgio Armani and Versace, fashion writer Hilary Alexander and celebrity photographer Nicky Johnston.

If Simone wins, she will be awarded a modelling contract as well as a string of other prizes.

The former pupil of George Heriot’s School has remained tight-lipped about the competition. However, she said she was looking forward to watching it on TV.

The programme was filmed late last year, but the contestants have been sworn to secrecy.

Simone, said: “I did a couple of shoots as a child but I never really thought about taking modelling seriously.

“My first shoot was when I was two with The Scotsman fashion magazine.

“My dad is a photographer so I’ve never been camera shy. I’ve always enjoyed having my photo taken.

“It wasn’t until I was at work one day on the third floor at Harvey Nichols that I was scouted and asked if I’d ever thought about being a model.

“That was a turning point for me, as I had participated in the odd shoot, but nothing serious.”

Simone, who had been working as an events manager in the Capital until she moved to London recently, said: “When I was at uni, I’d spend my weekends like most students, catching up on my coursework and hanging out with friends.

“Then when I graduated I spent some time doing hospitality and events work to give me time to figure out what I really wanted to do. I remember seeing an advert for Britain’s Next Top Model online, and when I had a spare hour, I just decided to fill out the form.

“I never thought in a million years I’d get as far as I did.”

Simone said that her dream is to work in a creative profession alongside people she admires.

Talking about the competition, Simone said: “I absolutely love modelling and being part of Britain’s Next Top Model has been crazy.

“It was such a unique experience I’ll never forget.

“I’m completely happy with the way I portrayed myself on the show.

“I’m just looking forward to seeing it on TV now and watching my body language and so on.

“As well competing, I made new friends.”

Simone is the only Scottish contestant to make the final stages of the programme.

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