Miss Teen Bermuda Islands, Stacy Pitcher can breathe easier this week with news the producer of the pageant has been able to secure sponsorship for five dresses that had been left in the lurch with the imminent closure of Trimminghams.

Terry Smith, of Tee'l Productions confirmed last night some sponsors had come forward, but was still finalising details before making a public announcement.

Meanwhile, Ms Pitcher, who admits the loss of the Trimminghams sponsorship was "a bit of a shock", is putting her best foot forward in her role.

"The main thing that affected me personally was I wouldn't be able to get my makeup done with MAC" said Stacy, who later admitted that she had little experience with makeup and would be doing her own for the remaining events.

"The most rewarding (part of her experience) was getting to know new people, being exposed to Bermuda as an example to the youth," Stacy admits.

When asked about her plans for the future, Stacy said: "I would like to do something with the youth, and give back to the community. Bermuda is a small place and the youth tend to find inappropriate ways to entertain themselves."

Ms Pitcher manages to balance being active within her school community with the responsibilities of being Miss Teen Bermuda Islands.

Stacy says: "Responsibilities are to uphold yourself with pride, dignity and integrity (because) when you are presented as Miss Teen Bermuda Islands you become well known."

"The experience has just changed me in the way that I present myself to people, I am more confident," said Stacy.

Luckily this reward is something that may stay with Stacy long after her reign ends on August 14.

When asked if she will be glad when the experience is over Stacy says: "Yes. In the sense where everything goes back to normal. And no in the sense that you don't get the exposure and have the little kids (and their) excited faces, just to see you wave to them."

Forms are currently available at La Trattoria Restaurant on Washington Lane or participants may phone Mr. Smith at 337-5552 for further information.