The 21-year-old claimed the coveted crown on a glittering night at Fontwell Park Racecourse.

Roxanne, who attends the prestigious Urdang Academy in central London, now goes on to represent the county in the Miss England final on July 18.

To view a video of the beauty pageant click on the green icon.

The dance and performing arts student said: "It's still not really sunk in. It was such a wonderful event and to be named Miss West Sussex was a lovely surprise.

"One of the best things was to see my mum and dad looking so proud. My nanny and grandad were also there and it meant so much they could share in such a special moment.

"All the other girls were so friendly and I was so shocked to even make the final five. It was one of the best days of my life."

The Observer teamed up with Fontwell Park in March to promote the beauty pageant

More than 50 girls entered the race to be named Miss West Sussex and that list was trimmed to 20 in the run-up to last Friday's event.

Two girls then dropped out of the running through illness but the 18 who took to the stage wowed the thousands of punters who had turned up for Fontwell's six-race meeting.

A panel of judges made up of best-selling author Jilly Cooper, three-time champion jockey Richard Dunwoody, actress Honeysuckle Weeks and Observer deputy editor John Carter had the tough task of picking the winner.

The pageant started with the girls parading in their own eco-friendly creations which ranged from outfits made of newspaper to items bought from charity shops.

The second round featured the girls in outfits they would wear to the races.

The lucky ladies who made the final five then had to parade in eveningwear before the top three were crowned.

Business management student Alexandra Williams (21) was named runner-up, with teacher training student Rebecca Parsons (20) placed third.

The top three all received bouquets donated by Nectar Flowers.

Roxanne, who was sponsored on the night by Peter Robertson, of Condor Office Solutions, will also be treated to a night at the four-star Felbridge Hotel and Spa in East Grinstead.

Her dress for the Miss England final will be created by UK bridal designer of the year Ian Stuart and Proposals in Chichester.

And she will be treated to a free hour's photo shoot at MEP Photography.