A Belfast woman has been chosen from thousands of proud glasses wearers as a regional finalist for Specsavers’ Spectacle Wearer of the Year.

Carmel Smyth, shortlisted in the 45 – 59 age category from east Belfast could follow in the footsteps of last year’s Award winner, Love Island hunk Alex Miller, winning £10,000 and the chance to mingle with the stars at the annual Spectacle Wearer of the Year Awards.

Glasses wearers across the UK and Republic of Ireland have been showing off their specs style by sharing their selfies online throughout the spring and summer.

Carmel was invited to visit her local Specsavers store in Connswater Shopping Centre to receive a bottle of champagne, a certificate and a £150 glasses voucher.

Carmel also took the opportunity to try Specsavers’ innovative Framestyler technology to help choose a new pair of specs, ahead of the next round of judging.

“I was absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted as a regional finalist, I never win anything! I love wearing glasses and it’s usually the first thing I notice about people. Frame Styler is an app that I love playing around with too as I can browse at home before I buy frames. I have had a blast taking part in the competition and I hope that I can get to the next stage in London, it would be so exciting!”

Lynsey Caldwell, Director of Specsavers Connswater said “Carmel is a brilliant example of a glasses wearer who is passionate about her look from head to toe, especially her glasses. We look forward to introducing her to new frame styles in the future in store. We also wish her the best of luck in the remainder of the competition.”

The awards were launched by Steps star Claire Richards earlier this year. If she triumphs in her age category, Carmel will meet Claire and rub shoulders with many other celebs at the glitzy awards ceremony at London’s 8 Northumberland Avenue inOctober.

There are five age categories – 16-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-59 and over 60, plus a Facebook favourite voted for by the public. All age category winners will win a VIP makeover, with one overall winner taking home the ultimate accolade in specs wearing.