A BUSINESS owner from Poole, named Mr Dorset back in 2019, is in the final of the Mr England competition.

One of just three finalists whittled down from contenders from across the UK, Liam Ulla is now in the running to become the next national champion.

If he claims the title, he will go on to be England’s only entrant into the prestigious Mr World contest.

The 28-year-old said: “To be among this group of finalists, who are so driven and have such admirable values, is a great honour.

“I am also delighted to be able to use this platform to share my passion for the environment and shine a spotlight on the plastic crisis facing our oceans.”

Liam, originally from Banbury, Oxfordshire, ticks every box having established Coacoara, a not-for-profit foundation to reduce plastic waste and assist in reducing the ocean’s plastic content.

His curated range of compostable plastic-free, eco-friendly products, including carrier bags, sponges, cling film and toothbrushes, is available in 16 stores across the UK & Europe.

He is working with supermarkets and businesses including local care home group Luxurycare, striking up a partnership with Eagles Mount in Poole, the first UK care home to be certified carbon neutral.

The money raised by Coacoara will be used to fund The Ocean Cleanup Project, which holds operations to reduce the amount of plastic in the oceans.

He added: “Since becoming Mr Dorset I have worked hard to make positive changes in my community and beyond it, to have the opportunity to do that on an even bigger scale, with a national platform, would be amazing.

“I’d love the people of Dorset to get behind me and give me their support so I can keep working hard and making a difference.”

The Miss and Mr England final will be held on Friday August 27.