A Cwmgwili schoolgirl is set to represent Wales in a beauty pageant across the border.

Frances Watkins, who attends Canolfan Y Amanwy at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, made history last year when she became the first teenager in the UK to win a national pageant using a wheelchair.

The 16-year-old, who was diagnosed cerebral palsy at 10 months old, has been in a wheelchair for most of her life but mum Marie says that she has always wanted to compete in pageants.

Over the last three years, the teenager has been competing in pageants up and down the country including ‘Faces of the Globe’, ‘Crown and Glory’, ‘Ultimate Beauty of the World’ and ‘Miss Beauty UK’ after being inspired by a popular TV programme.

“She always used to watch Toddlers and Tiaras on TV” said Frances’ mum, Marie.

“We didn’t know they did it in the UK, but when we found out that there are pageants over here, Frances wanted to be a part of it.

“She won the Natural Beauty pageant in North Wales last year and is currently Teen Natural Beauty Wales, but we are flying to Barcelona at the end of May as Frances is in the running to become Teen Natural Beauty International.

“Frances will take part in the National Gala and the pageant which has a fashion wear and an evening wear round.”

“Over the last year, Frances has had a fabulous time. From afternoon tea and photo shoots to interviews with ITV news and S4C to having articles printed in the paper.”

On top of winning the Teen Natural Beauty Wales crown, Frances was also named the Natural Beauty Wales charity winner last year after she managed to raise more than £1,400 for Cancer Research Wales.

Her mum added: “She’s raised the most money for charity and she was the first one ever to win a national pageant using a wheelchair in the UK - I am very proud.

“She wanted to do it and she uses an electric wheelchair so she can go on stage herself, on her own.

“As a family we are so proud of her and we are so thankful for everyone that has helped her over the years.”

To vote for Frances in the popularity category, you need to like the Natural Beauty International Facebook page, like Frances’ photo and share Fran’s photo to help her get more likes.

Voting in the popularity category will close on May 24 at 10pm and the winner will be announced at the Natural Beauty International finals in Barcelona on May 28.