A BURY beauty queen is readying herself for the prestigious grand final of a national pageant this weekend.

Freya Sheldon earned the right to compete in the Miss Teen Galaxy England competition in Preston after winning Miss Teen Bury Galaxy earlier in the year.

The 15-year-old, who lives in Seedfield Road, Walmersley, will be competing against similar winners from all over the country for the overall title.

Over the past 10 months she has raised over £1000 for her chosen charity, The Christie, through events such as pamper party's and raffle competitions.

She said: “I am really excited for Galaxy at the weekend and I just hope that I can make my friends, family and town proud.

“I am not competing to win, and although that would be incredible, I am competing to prove to people who have bullied me in the past that I am strong, independent young lady.

“I signed up to the event to help me gain confidence and after the previous pageant I felt so much better within myself."

The winner of Miss Teen Galaxy England will fly out to the USA to compete in the international Galaxy pageant against girls from all over the world.

Winning the overall title will open up numerous other doors and will raise the person's profile even more.

Freya’s parents Jane Sheldon and Paul Bradwell, who have supported her all the way to the final, said: “We are immensely proud of how far our daughter has come and her strength and determination in fundraising an incredible amount for various charities.

“Freya has enjoyed researching her chosen charities and exploring how donations are best spent.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank family and friends for their continued support in her fundraising efforts.”

The event takes place on Saturday, March 11 at Park Hall Hotel in Preston.