Katy van Hemelryk has had a very busy 2018. After winning the Miss Cheltenham contest, she went on to represent the town at the prestigious Miss England contest, finishing 9th overall and winning the Miss Sportswoman title.

On top of all that, Katy now runs Zest24, her own gym and personal training service in Cheltenham. We caught up with her to find out a bit more about her interests and hobbies.

What do you enjoy most about your role in Gloucestershire?

“It’s been really fun to see more of Cheltenham even though I’ve been here all my life. I’ve also enjoyed helping to promote local businesses as a business owner myself, and also supporting local charities.”

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

“I don’t often get spare time but when I do I love baking and anything to do with cakes really!”

What’s your favourite place to visit in Gloucestershire?

“Leckhampton Hill has some really beautiful views, I like going walking there with my family.”

What’s your favourite place to eat in Gloucestershire?

“Brasserie Blanc do some really good food and a very nice pistachio soufflé.”

Do you support any local sports teams?

“I should but even though I’m a personal trainer I’m just not into football or rugby!”

What do you miss about Gloucestershire when you’re away?

“It’s so lively and beautiful in Cheltenham. I find that when you go abroad and then come back it’s always amazing how green it is around here compared to over there!”

Are you a film or a book person?

“Probably more a movie person as when I’m tired it’s a nice way to relax.”

What’s your favourite film?

“The Great Escape! It’s a classic and I love the storyline.”

What’s your favourite book?

“Recently I’ve really enjoyed a book by a local author, Alex Anderson, called ‘The Good Muslim’. He was in the SAS, and it’s about his experiences but written as a novel.”

Do you have any pets?

“I’ve got a cat called Dave!”

Do you ever attend any shows in Gloucestershire?

“I love going to the pantomimes at the Everyman during Christmas time. I know it’s supposed to be for kids but even as an adult I really enjoy it!”

What achievement are you most proud of?

“Setting up my own gym in Cheltenham. I’ve got a private personal training studio and it’s taken a long time to achieve it, but it’s so rewarding helping people to work towards a healthier lifestyle.”

Do you think the perception of beauty queens is changing?

“I think there’s definitely a misunderstanding around the Miss England contest. We do a lot of charity and community work, volunteering, and it’s not just based on looks. In the past, Miss England winners have been training to be oncology doctors, crime scene investigators, really inspirational women. Other pageants might be more about looks and we tend to get tarnished with the same brush.”