A STOURPORT teenager is seeking support for her charity fundraising efforts as she bids to be crowned Miss Worcestershire.

Jess Cartwright is looking to win the coveted title of Miss Worcestershire 2016 at a ceremony in January when she competes in her first ever beauty contest.

As part of her challenge, the 17-year-old student is planning to run from her school, Stourport High School, in Minster Road, to Worcester Cathedral to help raise cash for the charities Beauty with a Purpose and Josh’s Prayers.

Miss Cartwright, who also works part-time at Tesco, said: “I saw the competition advertised last year but I didn’t have the confidence to apply, but this year I decided to just do it for the enjoyment and experience, but I never expected to get through to the final.

“This particular competition appealed to me because of the charity work alongside the beauty side of the competition. Charity work is something I am passionate about – helping someone in their time of need is essential and the feeling of knowing you are helping change someone’s life for the better is unexplainable.

“My run from Stourport High School to Worcester Cathedral is the equivalent to running half a marathon.

“I am raising money for two charities, the first is Beauty with a Purpose which is a charity for local and international organisations in aid of disadvantaged children all over the world.

“The second charity I wish to raise money for is a local charity close to many people’s hearts and that is Josh’s Prayers, which helps and supports bereaved families who have lost young family members.”

Anyone wishing to support Jess can sponsor her through her fundraising page at crowdfunding.justgiving.com/jessica-cartwright.