ASPIRING Redditch beauty queen Amy McDonald is swapping glamorous dresses for thermals next week when she takes part in a sponsored sleep out.

Miss McDonald will complete the fundraising for Beauty with a Purpose, a charity which supports disadvantaged children around the world, as part of her bid to become Miss Birmingham.

The 24-year-old from Matchborough West, who was shortlisted from more than 800 girls and is now set to compete against 39 others in the grand final on Sunday, March 20, will be doing the challenge in Birmingham on Friday, February 26.

Miss Macdonald said: "The money raised will go to an amazing charity that helps children suffer from this every day. It will also give me an opportunity to experience what people go through so that I can somehow relate and speak out for others in the future."

Speaking on why she decided to take part in the pageant, the former Arrow Vale pupil who works at Ipsley Academy and Crown Meadow First School, said: “I want to be able to make a difference to the world and it would be an amazing opportunity to represent my county.

"It also gives me a chance to follow my dreams to travel and work with children which is something I have always wanted to do. I am also really excited to meet new people and make new friends."

To donate visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AmyMcDonald24.