A WIRRAL schoolgirl is preparing to represent the borough when she competes for the title of Little Miss Teen Great Britain later this year.

Eleven-year-old Jemma Barnes, from Spital, was crowned Little Miss Independent last year when she took part in his first pageant.

But she was delighted when, earlier this month, she received a phone call to say she had made it through to the final of Little Miss Teen Great Britain, held in Blackpool in October.

“She was speechless, which is a first for Jemma,” said proud mum Jane.

“Jemma is so excited preparing for the final – dress hunting, finding a sponsor and advertising. She’s also thinking of ways to make money for Miss Teen Great Britain’s chosen charity.”

Her fundraising efforts will be in aid of Together For Short Lives and Claire House Children’s Hospice.

It will see her selling cakes at her dad’s cricket club and also at school. She hopes to raise £200.

“Doing her first pageant last summer gave Jemma so much more confidence and she wanted to try more,” said Jane.

“We are very proud of Jemma and are often complimented on how lovely she is inside and out.”

Jemma needs to secure £300 worth of sponsorship - £100 of which is needed as soon as possible.

Anyone who would be interested in sponsoring Jemma should email janemikejemma@hotmail.co.uk

To help her fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com/Jemma-Barnes7