A MALVERN teenager who battled cancer is hoping to wow the judges and claim the title of Miss Worcestershire.

Clemmie Huckerby, aged 18, breezed through to the finals of the modelling competition, which takes place in Worcester's Guildhall on November 2.

Although Miss Huckerby, who lives in Great Malvern, has no previous modelling experience, she impressed judges with her catwalk and confidence, which she said wasn't easy to find.

"I used to be confident about my looks, but in June this year I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. It came out of nowhere. I felt silly for going to the doctors because I was constantly tired, but the doctor noticed a lump in my neck. I went for various tests and it was confirmed that I had cancer and would need an operation to remove it," the former Heart of Worcestershire College student said.

"I couldn't believe it when they said I had cancer. I cried a lot. After my operation to remove the cancer I felt a lot better, but I was left with a really big scar and I became very insecure about this."

Despite her insecurity, Miss Huckerby entered the competition and she said it has helped boost her confidence.

She said: "I do feel better about myself. I want to use the competition to raise awareness of cancer in young people and children. I didn't suspect I had cancer at all, so I hope it will make people think. I would like to think I could win the competition but I'll have to see. My family and friends are all really supportive of me."

Apart from preparing herself for the finals, Miss Huckerby said she is planning for the future.

"I would love to have a job as an air hostess as I love travelling. When I'm completely better I really want to travel to Thailand, America, and Australia," she added.