Last week we launched a chance for you, the readers, to help secure one of the contestants a place in the final five at a beauty pageant to be held at Fontwell Park Racecourse next month.

The Observer teamed up with Fontwell Park to help promote the Miss West Sussex competition.

And you've been quick to either text in your favourite or complete a coupon.

The pageant on Friday, May 2, forms part of a six-race meeting at Fontwell, with tribute bands Queen B and SO Blondie taking to the stage as part of a Party In The Park theme.

Contestants will perform a catwalk-style parade in 1980s wear before announcing their names. And the second round will feature the women dressed in 'what I would wear at the races'.

But one of the 20 girls won't have to sweat over her performance in these two sections as readers can guarantee her a spot in the final five.

All you've got to do is pick your favourite from the panel on the right and either text or complete the coupon in the Observer to register your vote.

The contestant receiving the most votes will then be given a bye to the final round.

A special panel made up of staff at Fontwell Park and the Observer will be set up to count the votes and their decision will be final. The closing date for votes is 5pm on Monday, April 28.

Senior commercial executive at Fontwell Park Beccy Green said: "Your vote is a great chance to ensure your favourite is guaranteed a spot in the final five. I'm sure whichever girl is chosen will be absolutely delighted to know she has made the last five."

Best-selling author Jilly Cooper, three-time champion jockey Richard Dunwoody, actress Honeysuckle Weeks and Observer deputy editor John Carter will have the tough task of crowning Miss West Sussex 2008.

Each of the final five contestants will be asked two questions by the compere before the judges' scores are collated and the overall winner is announced.

So keep on texting or completing your coupon (no photocopies allowed) to have your say in our fabulous Miss West Sussex competition.

To see a slide show of the entrants, click on the video oon the right

See next page for how to vote and conditions