Actor Mike Burns (left) with models from models@events connect

From now on, Yorkshire's beauties may launch their career in modelling locally. In the city of York, a new agency opens.

Actor Mike Burns (LEFT OF THE PHOTO), the star of the Brittas Empire - he played Colin - is already on its books alongside eight girls and another male. Mike Burns is seen with models from models@events connect, from left, Helen Geldart, Julia Miller, Gina Gallagher, Caroline Emmerson, Kelly Baker, Louise Rigg, Georgia Horsley and Barney Smith.

models@events connect is part of the York-based Events Connect, run by former beauty queen and national model Vivienne. Vivienne Lee who gave the Miss York competition the kiss of life after it became a sleeping beauty for 20 years has launched a model management company for local stunners.

The agency will provide a springboard for local modelling and promotions talent, covering all ages and both sexes for local and national fashion, photographic and promotional assignments.

Vivienne, who is also the driving force behind the national, recently-launched Miss England model agency, says: "When Miss York was resurrected after 20 years in 2005, it became more evident that clients were asking for models and promotional staff. There are lots of exhibitions and events around this region. York is brimming with talent. And the models are so enthusiastic. Since we brought the Miss York competition back to life some of the models on our books have already carried out many local and national assignments for a wide range of clients."

Georgia Horsley, from Norton, won the title in its first year before handing over her crown to Miss York 2006, Catrina Lakin, of Thorganby, who beat 36 finalists.

Vivienne said models who specialise in fashion shows would be trained by Miss England choreographer Lisa Powell: "This is very exciting because it is a local project. These are new people to the industry and new faces on the market. As the demand for local models and promotional staff has grown since the rebirth of the Miss York competition we have risen to the challenge of meeting that demand with beauty, style and class."

models@events connect also offers deportment courses to build confidence for men, women and children.