A LEOMINSTER schoolgirl is hoping to return the Miss Teen Great Britain crown to Herefordshire this year.

Ten-year-old Ella Wood has reached the final of Little Miss Teen Great Britain 2020, with the competition raising money for a charity which supporters families who care for seriously ill children.

More than £69,000 has been raised for the Together for Short Lives charity so far by the competitors, with Ella holding an Easter raffle which made £100.50.

Ella will represent Herefordshire at the competition, due to be be held in Blackpool in October.

The pupil from Leominster Primary School said: "My mum received the call and said hold on I will put you on speaker, so the lady was able to tell me in front of all my family at home.

"I was in total shock my mouth opened wide and I sobbed to the lady on the phone.

"I can't wait to experience this amazing opportunity.

"I'm super excited to be able to do this and also meet some amazing new people and friends."

Sam Wood, Ella's mum, said the family is now looking for companies willing to sponsor her.

"Ella has a real chance of winning and this could be a great way to promote a Herefordshire business at the same time," she added.