A Malpas man has reached the final of a competition to become the hottest vegan in the UK and Ireland.

Ciarán O’Shea has become one of the eight male finalists in PETA’s UK and Ireland’s Hottest Vegan Competition 2018.

The 22-year-old beat a number of entrants to reach the final, and is now hoping to go all the way victory.

Should he be crowned the winner, the pilot will be in for a trip for two on a luxury European cruise.

The winners of the annual contest are chosen based on several factors, including vote count.

Ciarán said: “I have a job that allows me to meet a lot of people, almost all of whom I talk to about being vegan.

"I'm encouraging my employer to increase the availability of vegan options on flights, including stocking non-dairy milk and to reduce its plastic use."

PETA Director Elisa Allen, said: “There’s nothing sexier than someone who is committed to helping animals and the environment, and it doesn’t hurt that vegans are, on average, healthier and more energetic than their meat-eating peers.

“Each one of the finalists in PETA’s contest is a living example of the strength and vitality that can come from vegan eating.”

The winner of the contest will be revealed on August 13.