TEENAGE dancer Rikki Mellis is hoping to be named the Teen Queen of 2013 in a national beauty pageant.
The 14-year-old, of Caernarvon Road, Up Hatherley, admitted she didn't even know about the competition until she was scouted by Teen Queen representatives who fast-tracked her through the first few rounds.
But voting is now open – and Rikki needs all the votes she can get to appear in the final in London, and win the prestigious title of Teen Queen 2013.
The prize winner will then go on to represent Great Britain at a global competition in China.
Rikki, who attends Bournside School, is part of the Variations Academy of Dance and is dancing on the catwalk as a part of this week's Fashion and Beauty celebrations, in Cheltenham.
Rikki's mum Heather Mellis, 38, is encouraging her daughter every step of the way.
She said: "I am absolutely over the moon about it.
"It is never something she wanted to do but now that she is I'm all for it.
"I'm totally supportive of her."
If you would like to vote for Rikki you can text TQ21 to 81319.
Texts cost 75p plus a standard text charge.
