Miss World gets online betting boost

Internet betting firms have given the Miss World competition a new lease of life, say organisers of the event.

Thanks to online betting, the competition - which culminates this evening in a telephone vote - has enjoyed renewed success after several years in the wilderness.

"This year we have seen an increase in interest for the competition, however interest seems to be more from abroad than at home and this is reflected in the increased takings online from our international customers," said Serena Momberg of William Hill.

Miss Chile and Miss USA are currently favourites to take the title from India, with Miss England standing at 16-1 for the crown.

missworld.org