A GUARDIAN reporter is set to take centre stage in Northwich in memory of a much-loved relative who died from cancer earlier this year.

Jess Farrington recently discovered her auntie Christine Cox was Miss Manchester in the 1980s and has now decided to follow in her footsteps.

Jess entered the Miss Cheshire competition, which is open to 17 to 26-year-olds, and has been selected as a finalist.

The 22-year-old said: “Earlier this year my auntie died from a rare type of cancer, just a few weeks after my uncle, which was devastating.

“After she died I found out she was Miss Manchester in the late 1980s so when I got accepted as a finalist for Miss Cheshire, I saw it as a sign from her.”

The member of Guardian Series’ editorial team first decided to enter the competition after being inspired through her work.

Jess explained: “I’ve interviewed many people who have entered similar competitions.

“The message from them was that entering competitions like this doesn’t mean you’re judged on looks - the point is to be a role model and let your personality shine through while raising funds for your community.”

Jess, from Sandbach, will be raising money for Variety - The Children’s Charity, which provides support to children and young people who are sick, disabled or disadvantaged, by climbing Snowdon next month.

She added: “Being a reporter you really get to hear how much donations mean to people so I can’t wait to see how the Miss Cheshire finalists’ money will help children across Cheshire.”

The Miss Cheshire final, which features a ‘glamorous four scene catwalk fashion show and awards ceremony’, will take place at Northwich Memorial Hall on Sunday, May 26.

To support Jess in her fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jess-farrington

Keep up to date with Jess’s progress by liking her Facebook page by searching for Jess Farrington Miss Cheshire 2019 Finalist.