Miss Universe Wales final delayed

The Miss Universe Wales 2012 final has been delayed by almost a month, after organisers raised last minute concerns about competitors having to walk outside the building to access the stage.

The young Welsh beauties were expected to compete at Mercure Holland House Hotel in Cardiff tonight.  But organisers were unhappy when they found out the girls would need to step outside in costumes and make-up to access the stage.

Vivienne Sharman-Lewis, Director of Miss Universe Wales, said they had no choice but to look for an alternative venue. 

She said: “Originally we were told the stairway from the dressing rooms had direct access to the ball room, but this was not the case."

“The girls were expected to walk down three flights of stairs, leave the building through one fire door, walk along pavements outside and get back in the building through another."

“They would have had to go outside in the open air, which was a health and safety issue, as well as a security concern for us.”

Ms Sharman-Lewis said they were disappointed to delay the event.

“It’s been a bit of a nightmare.  You have to learn to never assume anything and be prepared for change. But we’ll get it right in the end,” she said.

Mercure Holland House Hotel declined to comment.

Last year Summer Ghanavati, a Cardiff University student from Roath, scooped third place in the Miss Universe Great Britain competition. Fellow Welsh woman, Chloe-Beth Morgan, from Torfaen, was crowned winner.

The final will now take place on Saturday March 10 from 7pm at The Coal Exchange in Cardiff Bay.  

Tickets for the final of Miss Universe Wales 2012 start at £20 per person. Go to http://muw.eventbrite.co.uk for more information.