Miss Ireland Lauren McDonagh was the pride of the country last night as she competed in the Miss World championships.

Lauren competed against dozens of top pageant winners from across the globe, jetting off to the pictureque Sanya in China for the lavish final.

Picture via Instagram @misslaurenmcdonagh

Since becoming Miss Ireland, Buncrana woman Lauren has been busy raising awareness for muscular dystrophy, having dedicated her crown to her late brother Darren who passed away from the disease aged 17 when she was just 8.

Lauren donned an exquisite yellow taffeta dress for the final, complete with a plunged neckline and frilly details crafted by So Amazing in collaboration with Style by Brendan Marc Scully.

Picture via Instagram @misslaurenmcdonagh

18-year-old Lauren is currently working as a beautician, and hopes to study nursing at university. Lauren is also passionate about dancing, especially ballet, tap, and modern dancing.

With brains, beauty, and talent; Lauren was the clear winner during Miss Ireland in September.

Picture via Instagram @misslaurenmcdonagh

Sharing the news from China, Lauren says: “And that’s the end of an era! I had the most amazing time and met the best bunch of ladies. Thank you Miss World for the incredible experience, I’ll cherish it forever, and my duties as Miss Ireland is only starting, excited to see what’s in store for the year ahead!”

Lauren has proved to be a fantastic ambassador for both Donegal and Ireland, and everyone at home in Donegal is very proud of her remarkable achievement.

Lauren with proud dad Tom

Ireland last won Miss World in 2003 when Rosanna Davison donned the sash, with the crown this year being won by Indian beauty Manushi Chhillar.