Today's the day I compete for the Miss Scotland 2017 title

Never in a million years did I ever believe I’d end up in the position I am now but, truth be told, I’ve never been so excited for such a unique opportunity in all my life.

Miss Scotland is something I’ve dreamed of being involved in since I was a young girl.

Growing up, people never failed to remind me I wasn’t the easiest on the eye...I remember being called to bullying meetings at primary school with my mum because of how often I was picked on.

Being called names from such a young age, my self-esteem was never particularly high so applying for Miss Scotland was a confidence-building exercise, if anything.

You can imagine how surprised I am now, then, to be in the running for the Miss Scotland title.

Meeting and working with some of the most genuine people I’ve ever met has made the process so much more enjoyable.

The 13 other finalists are absolutely wonderful and the team from Carers Trust Scotland have welcomed me with open arms.

Fundraising for a charity I wholeheartedly believe in has been amazing and knowing that I’ve made even a small change to better someone’s life is rewarding.

This year has been a mixed bag for me but having this opportunity has perked my spirits up.

Regardless of the outcome, knowing I was good enough to be considered is humbling and I’m so proud to have been a part of it.

I hope I can represent Falkirk well and do everyone proud... and to all those people at primary school – well, who’s laughing now?!