CHARLOTTE Hardy had set her sights on becoming a chemist, but when the chance to become a top model came, she couldn’t pass it up.

The 17-year-old was browsing the internet in July when she applied to become the next UK top model.

Having attended auditions last year, Colchester Sixth Form student Charlotte will now compete in the final of Top Model UK on Friday having fought off competition from thousands of other hopefuls.

“It’s not something I ever saw myself doing,” said Charlotte, of Birch Glen, in Colchester.

“I just took a chance, sent it a few pictures of me and things went from there.”

This summer, she is due to sit her A-Levels in biology, chemistry and maths but is happy for her modelling career to take off on the side, by winning a year-long contract.

“To win would be amazing,” she added.

“I’ve been getting texts from friends saying they’re all proud of me for getting this far and I just hope I can go a little further.”

During the heats, Specsavers, in Long Wyre Street, Colchester, has sponsored Charlotte, who wears glasses, so she can make each appointment in London.

She is a former employee and proud mum Donna Hardy still works there.

“Charlotte has worked so hard to get this far and still be doing well in her studies.

“I don’t know how she does it - she’s pretty amazing.”

Now in its seventh year, Top Model UK is one of the leading international fashion model search campaigns.

The grand final takes place on Friday night at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel.