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(Image: REUTERS)

Pretty Angela Ponce, 23, took part in the international beauty pageant but didn't make it to the final ten contestants.

Miss World Spain's first ever transgender contestant, who was representing Cadiz in southern Spain, was tipped as a favourite to take the crown.

But the winner on Sunday at the glitzy event in Estepona, was Mireia Lalaguna, Miss Barcelona.

(Image: REUTERS)

Ms Ponce said: “As far as I’m concerned I’m a winner.

"I have the regional crown on my head and I will keep fighting to make us seen, to make us heard and to demonstrate that I am already a queen with my own crown. My battle continues.”

Ms Ponce said she knew she was "different" from an early age. She added: “When my parents asked me what toy I wanted, I went straight for the Barbies.”

(Image: REUTERS)

After years of hormone therapy, she had the final operation of her transition in 2014.

She remains a strong supporter of the Daniela Foundation, which raises awareness of transgender issues.

Stunning Miss South Africa Rolene Strauss won Miss World 2014.