Sophie Roper, 19, is participating in a pageant called Miss Scotland Charity which takes place in Glasgow in November.

And the former Hermitage Academy pupil is hoping to raise £1,500 for charity Hope for Autism.

Sophie was a volunteer at Enable Scotland and a few of her best friends are affected by autism which is why she is raising money for the cause.

She told the Advertiser: “I have best friends who are like family to me that have autism and they are the most amazing people ever, I used to volunteer at Enable Scotland but now I just meet my little family from day to day.

“I am arranging a tea, coffee and cake lunch in Helensburgh, a collection in Helensburgh, a collection in Glasgow, a charity cruise up to Glasgow with car enthusiasts, a bag pack, and a kids day out.

“It’s a lot to do but I am aiming to do them all and raise a huge amount, I will also be placing boxes from the charity around the town for any donations.” Sophie came second in Scotland at the Miss Earth United Kingdom finals in Blackpool last year, but this time round the teenager is pushing herself to go further.

She added: “I feel this competition will be a friendly one for sure, all the girls are amazing.

“The director and organisers, Christina Smith and Jennifer Glasgow, are amazing people and are organising it very well.

“I’m glad everyone has came together and starting fund raising brilliantly and so far so good, can’t for final total of the money raised never mind who wins the crown.

“I have grown incredibly since my last pageant Miss Earth United Kingdom, this pushed me to go further and keep doing what I’m doing, and can’t thank anyone enough for all their support.” To donate money to Hope for Autism, look out for donation boxes and posters around town.