Beauty pageant turned into feminism's battleground

London: The final of a beauty contest for women university students descended into a pitched battle over the soul of feminism last night.

Dozens of protesters attempted to disrupt the last round of Miss University London, deploying stink bombs and chaining themselves to the door as they tried to stop a competition they claimed was demeaning to women.

The final at Crystal club in Marylebone went ahead after a series of interruptions including four women storming the stage.

Police said eight people were arrested but were later released amid calls for a ban to the event.

Eleanor James, 23, women's officer at the School of Oriental and African Studies students' union, said: "This competition is dehumanising to all the women who are taking part."

However, participants defended the event and said it "feminism at its best".

The final of the pageant went ahead with Susheel Bal being crowned Miss University London.

- Evening Standard