Miss Iceland is new Miss World

Miss Iceland, Unnur Birna Vilhjalmsdottir, adjusts her new Miss World 2005 crown during the ceremony on China's Hainan Island today. Picture / Reuters

BEIJING - Miss Iceland, a 21-year-old anthropology and law student and part-time policewoman, was crowned Miss World today on the southern Chinese resort island of Hainan.

Appearing shocked, Unnur Birna Vilhjalmsdottir fought back tears as the Miss World banner was draped over her shoulders.

The winner was chosen by nine former Miss Worlds from finalists selected by television viewers who called in from around the world. More than 100 contestants took part.

China has hosted the Miss World pageant for the past three years following the controversial 2002 contest, which was moved to Britain from Nigeria after sparking Muslim-Christian riots in the African nation.

- REUTERS