A KIND-HEARTED youngster is competing for the title of Little Miss Scotland while raising awareness about a cause close to her family’s heart.

Ava McNaught, five, is competing in the final of Junior Miss Scotland, in her first pageant, on November 5 at Kings Park Hotel, Glasgow.

The Lochgoilhead Primary pupil is taking part to raise awareness and fundraise for the events affiliated charity the United Together Foundation, which provides a range of services that help prevent bullying, racism and discrimination.

But the generous youngster isn’t stopping there with her fundraising efforts. Ava is also raising funds and awareness for Scottish Autism.

Ava’s brother, Liam, four, has autism and is non verbal. Ava is hoping to raise awareness and understanding of the disability.

Michelle Madden, Ava’s grandmother, told the Advertiser: “Ava wanted to help raise awareness and is determined to help. She stays in a very rural area and wants to make people aware.

“Liam is the only child at Lochgoilhead Primary who has autism and the school and local community have been great.

“I am very proud of Ava.”

Scottish Autism helps those diagnosed with autism lead full and enriched lives and become valued members of the communities they live in.

During the school holidays Ava, Liam and Michelle will be joined by family members and primary classmates in an attempt to climb the Steeple, at a height of 378m.

The family has previously held a fundraiser and raised £400 for Liam and Lochgoilhead Primary School to purchase cards, sensory equipment and any other items to support Liam’s needs.

Ava has been praised by staff at Helensburgh and Lomond Autism for raising awareness.

Chairwoman Romy Fagan, said: “We would like to wish Ava the best of luck with her fundraising and the competition.

“We are glad to see autism awareness being further promoted in the wider Argyll and Bute area, especially from such a young source.”

A Go Fund Me page has been set up. To donate visit: www.gofundme.com/junior-miss-scotland-final