by Nicola Forman

A beauty therapist is urging people to vote for her to become the UK Bikini Babe 2009.

Kailly Wood , 23, from Meadow Rise, Iwade, has made it through to the semi-finals of the national modelling competition.

The 23-year-old, who has been modelling for the last two years, was encouraged to enter the competition after sending some pictures to a modelling agency.

She said: “I’ve always wanted to model and have been lucky enough to appear in commercials and have done some fashion and glamour modelling.

“This would be a huge step to making it big in the modelling world. I’m hoping this will push me into doing it full-time, if I’m lucky enough to win.”

Kailly is up against 11 other girls and just three will go through to the finals in September.

The winner will receive a contract with top Page 3 model Keeley Hazell’s new Muse Model Management, as well as their own calendar shot with photographer Alan Strutt and £10,000 in cash.

They will also be the face of Fake Bake Tanning and will feature in the Bikini Babe 2010 calendar, following in the footsteps of Caprice and Kelly Brook.

Kailly added: “It’s a really good opportunity. My friends and family are really supportive and I just hope people get behind me.”

To vote for Kailly just text Kailly Wood to 81118 or call 0901 293 5935 and vote 04. The deadline is June 30.