A 14-YEAR-old who has suffered from selective mutism since she was a toddler, has beaten thousands of applicants to be crowned Miss Teen Runcorn.

Nieve Shannon, from Sandymoor, will now compete in the finals of Miss Junior Teen Great Britain, where she will have the chance to walk away with a £500 cash prize.

The youngster will take to the stage in October as part of the glamorous event.

"Neive's achievements thus far are incredible, and only become more inspirational when you consider that she has had selective mutism since the age of two," explained dad, Dan.

"Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that means a person may be unable to speak, usually in certain social situations such as at school.

"That Nieve is able to confidentially compete and answer the questions put to her is testament to the hard work and drive she has."

Alongside her pageant success, Nieve is a keen fundraise, and is hoping to raise much-needed funds for Warrington Hospital's Neonatal Unit.

Dan said: "This unit is incredibly close to Nieve’s heart as they cared for her younger brother Niall, now seven, who was born three months prematurely.

"The unit is a vital part of our community and they work hard to care for all the families who pass through their doors.

"It can often be hard at the best of times, and with the current global situation one can only imagine the struggles they are currently facing, as are many areas of the NHS.

"Nieve has set up a JustGiving page and is asking for donations to help relieve some of the pressure that this unit could be facing.

"She is rallying the community to give what they can to provide nappies and other essentials to those who may be needing them the most."

To support Nieve in her journey, visiting justgiving.com/crowdfunding/nieve-shannon

If any local businesses would like to sponsor Nieve during the Miss Teen Great Britain finals email Nieveshannon@icloud.com.