A DALTON teen has won a place in the semi-final of a national pageant competition.

Caitlin Marie Toal beat competition from across Great Britain to be named as one of the semi-finalists at the Miss Teen Great Britain 2020.

The competition is a platform to celebrate teenagers, their achievements and their goals while making friends from across the UK.

The 16-year-old said she was ‘so shocked’ to be named as one of the semi-finalists.

“I am honestly so shocked but super excited to be one of the semi-finalists,” Miss Toal said.

“I’m so happy to have a place in the semi-final.

“I always thought I wasn’t pretty enough, or skinny enough or this enough or that enough to do something like this but I just want to prove to people that everyone is enough and you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it.

“I feel proud to represent our local area.”

As part of Miss Teen Great Britain, participants are asked to raise money for the chosen charity Together for Short Lives.

Together for Short Lives is the leading UK charity for all children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and all those who support, love and care for them.

Their work helps to ensure that children can get the best possible care, wherever and whenever they need it.

Miss Toal added: “As part of being a semi-finalist I am raising funds for their chosen charity Together for Short Lives.

“My aim is to raise £1000 by July and I can’t wait to start planning my fundraising events.

"I’m currently planning a bingo night hopefully happening on January 31 and I’m really looking forward to supporting this incredible charity."

The semi-finalist who raises the most funds by July 1 2020 will be announced as this Miss Teen Charity winner and will win a free place in the 2020 Miss Teen Great Britain grand final.

To help Cailtin raise money for Together for Short Lives visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/caitlin-missteengb.