Controversial US child pageant to make Irish debut

Chiefs of one of America’s most contentious child beauty pageants have confirmed they will stage their first-ever Irish show under heavy security in September.

Texas-based Universal Royal Beauty Pageant said the identity of the hotel where they will stage the glitzy €20,000 event will be kept under wraps to prevent a media backlash.

However, bosses confirmed that the beauty contest will be open to “babies, toddlers and teens” — and will include a heat with youngsters decked out in swimwear — with “great prizes and trophies” on offer for the winners.