Challenge to air 'Miss World' in UK

Challenge has signed an exclusive deal to air this year's Miss World competition in the UK.

The annual event - watched by an audience of 2 billion worldwide - features contestants from more than 100 countries competing to be crowned the world's most beautiful woman.

Ten shows on the channel will air in the coming months, culminating in a live, two-hour grand finale from Poland on September 30. Viewers will also be given the opportunity to vote for their favourites and influence who goes through to the later rounds.

“We are really thrilled to be the only UK channel to be covering this year’s Miss World as it is a real institution," said Celia Taylor, controller of Challenge. "This acquisition will establish our channel as one that caters for all the family and enhances our growing entertainment offering."