Model Dani Capri is looking to win the UK National Ms Suffolk crown

A woman, who suffers from severe anxiety and depression, is determined to overcome her fears in an attempt to win a beauty pageant.

Dani Capri, from Hoxne, is set to compete for the UK National Ms Suffolk title in a competition organised by Pageant Girl UK.

The 31-year-old will attend a grand final later this year, when entrants will be judged across a number of categories.

“I have had this dream since I was a little girl but, due to my mental health and anxiety, I have struggled to feel good enough to compete in any pageant,” she said.

“I have controlled my symptoms with medication for around 15 years, and it’s a battle that never goes away. I have had to learn to live with it and embrace who I am.

“After years of friends telling me to just go for it, I started modelling for fashion, swimwear and gym-wear brands, while also influencing younger girls on Instagram.

“I’m now tackling the biggest fear I’ve ever had ... walking on to a stage in front of hundreds of people I don’t know and being judged on my choice of outfits, my looks, my confidence and my personality.”

Miss Capri, who suffers from emotional unstable personality disorder (EUPD), hopes her experience may inspire others.

“If you have EUPD, you can get in to a borderline psychotic condition where you experience extreme doubt in yourself and others,” she said.

“You cycle rapidly between moods, and may move from despair to euphoria in a very short time.

“If you put your mind to it, no matter what health condition or illness you suffer from, you can achieve any goal and, by competing in this pageant, I am going to try to raise awareness of this illness.

“If I can inspire others to face their fears and achieve their dreams, that’s what is most important to me.”

As part of her title bid, Miss Capri hopes to raise some money to donate to Mind, the mental health charity.

To support her, go to the Go Fund Me website and search for Dani-Capri.