An Ayr beauty queen is preparing to compete for the Miss Great Britain UK crown after making history as the first winner of the competition’s Ayrshire regional final.
Robyn Archibald, from Ayr, was named Miss Great Britain Ayrshire 2026 following a ceremony attended by 400 guests. Twenty-three women from across Ayrshire took part, impressing the judges and audience with their confidence, elegance and commitment to making a difference in their communities.
The evening ended with three winners being crowned, with Robyn taking the Ayrshire title. She said she was in “complete shock” when her name was announced.
“The night itself was amazing with hundreds of people watching, and everything was done to perfection. We did interviews in the morning and then three walking rounds on the night. I really wanted to win but honestly didn't expect it.”
Robyn said the messages of support began arriving the following day, leaving her with more replies to send. She also highlighted the charitable work connected to the competition, which has allowed her to continue fundraising for Cancer Research UK.
Fundraising for Cancer Research UK
The cause has a personal significance for Robyn after her dad and grandpa were diagnosed with cancer last year. She said attending appointments with them had shown her what people go through and motivated her to raise funds and awareness during her Miss Great Britain journey.
“I've raised around £2,400 so far, which included a croquet day in Loans back in August which went so well.”
The fundraising event drew on Robyn’s family connection to croquet. She said her gran and grandpa had long been involved with the croquet club and societies, while her grandpa introduced the family to the sport when they were young. Money raised at this year’s family and friends day went to Cancer Research UK.
Robyn’s fundraising plans will continue with the Glasgow Half Marathon in October. She is also due to complete an abseil in London a few days beforehand.
National competition in Leicester
Her next major step is the Miss Great Britain national competition, which is due to take place in Leicester next month. Robyn said winning the regional heat had already created opportunities with businesses and opened the door to modelling.
“The national competition is a whole other world and will require a lot of practicing before then.”
She is looking forward to meeting contestants from across the UK and has received support from Ava Morgan, another woman from Ayr who was crowned Miss Great Britain two years ago.
Robyn said Morgan had been helpful throughout the process as she prepares to represent Ayrshire at the national event.