'It's been a dream come true for me' ON THE CATWALK: Last year's winner, Jolene, says ...

Byline: By Cara Simpson

JOLENE HEATH from Coventry is already treading the catwalk thanks to the Telegraph's Top Model competition.

The glamorous 18-year-old, of York Close, Stoke Aldermoor, beat more than 200 entrants last year to win the Top Model competition - and her career has already taken off.

Her prize for winning the title was a make-over and professional photoshoot for a portfolio of her best shots.

Since winning the contest, Jolene's looks have already secured her a prestigious contract with L'Oreal.

And as part of the deal, the former Bishop Ullathorne School pupil walked the catwalk for a major show in London in front of hundreds of onlookers.

"It was an amazing experience", she said. "I couldn't believe everyone was looking at me."

Her modelling is miles away from her office job as a temporary credit controller and more offers are in the pipeline.

She has also made it through to the final 10 in a competition by the regional magazine Live 24 Seven and plans to sign on to the top agencies Models 1 and Storm. She said: "It's been a dream come true for me.

"I've always wanted to be a model and I love dressing up, which is the best thing about it, but I never thought I would make it because I didn't have any experience.

"I've done a lot of things I wouldn't normally have done if I hadn't entered the competition and I would encourage other people to do it too."

Jolene's mum Joan Welsh, a 46-year-old cook, added: "We were over the moon when we knew she had won and it's made us all really proud."

This year's Top Model competition winner will receive a prize worth more than pounds 4,000 which includes one year's modelling contract and free hairdressing for a year.