The heat was very definitely on as 22 stunning Miss Reef finalists took to the catwalk at the Animal Beach Ball tour, Fistral Beach on Sunday 18th July.

Just before 4pm those enjoying the sun and sand below the Headland Hotel were treated to a preview of the Miss Reef UK competitors who stopped en route to the main stage for an impromptu photocall, inspiring a local group of wannabe ‘Top Guns’ to break into a chorus of ‘Hello is it me you’re looking for’.

And everyone from the judges of this international surf icon event to the crowds that packed Fistral Beach were in agreement that the girl THEY were all looking for was 18 year old Claire Newby from Goldsithney, Cornwall who was crowned Miss Reef UK!

From her first appearance on the stage, Claire thoroughly dazzled the crowd and the panel of judges that included Russell Winter, Felicity Taylor (2003 Reef Girl), Paul Homes (Pluto models and actors), Neil Cole (owner of Fistral Surf Company) and 2 guest judges; Darren, competition winner with Extreme Sport Channel, and Ian who won his place on the day as a result of wearing Reef shoes and knowing that the brand originated from Brazil where Pure Vacations are sending the winner.

Her fresh yet sultry looks and natural surf style impressed everyone as much as her perfect shape in the classic Reef thong and rash vest. For the young “b&b chamber maid” it was, she said, “A dream come true. I love surfing and representing Reef will mean that I can really be a part of that lifestyle”

Miss Reef is regarded as the epitome of surfing lifestyle. She reflects Reef itself, which is regarded as the elite surf footwear brand, and all that is associated with its Latin American heritage. The search for Miss Reef makes international news and surfing headlines as countries around the world select their ultimate surf girl.

For the right girl, sultry, sporty and smart, Miss Reef is a competition that highlights all those qualities as well as her stunning surf looks. Winning the title brings unequalled recognition in return. Immediately following the final, Claire began planning a busy Miss Reef retail tour for the brand. As Miss Reef UK 2004, Claire receives a superb surf holiday to Brazil from leading tour operator Pure Vacations, a modelling contract with Pluto Model and Actors Agency and finally a year’s supply of Reef footwear and care.

Results of Miss Reef UK 2004

1st Miss Reef UK 04 (No. 10) Claire Newby, 18 from Goldsithney, Cornwall.
Claire enjoys surfing, wakeboarding, with her ambition to chill out as much as possible, and make the most of life.

2nd (No. 14) Claire Platt, 19 from Cheshire.
Claire is a student interested in skiing with her ambition to become rich and live abroad!

3rd (No. 17) Donna Bevan, 19 from Melksham.
Donna is an assistant buyer, with a National Diploma in Clothing.