A TEENAGE care assistant who was bullied at school because of her weight has entered Miss Cheshire 2019 to inspire younger girls.

Elle Johnson, from Chapelford, works as a care assistant on an advanced dementia unit at Whittle Hall Nursing Home.

The former Priestley College student is studying towards her NVQ level three in adult care and hopes to be a mental health nurse in the future.

Nineteen-year-old Elle decided to enter the Miss Cheshire pageant after being diagnosed with autism this year.

She said: "I saw that they were looking for entrants to inspire younger girls and this year I was diagnosed with autism and wanted to show that no matter what hidden disability you may have, you can still achieve anything you want.

"I have always struggled with learning at school but people could never pin down what it was."

Warrington Guardian:

Elle today

Elle also underwent open heart surgery when she was just six months old to treat holes in her heart and a split valve which was preventing oxygen accessing her lungs.

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She said: "I was left with a big scar from the surgery and so I want to show girls that no matter the way you look or what you have been through you can still achieve great things and have amazing opportunities.

“I was so shocked that I made the final, I wasn't expecting it so I was nervous but now I am getting more confident ahead of the competition.

“The whole thing has really boosted my confidence.”

Elle is also passionate about the environment and is using the plastic she collects at New Brighton beach to make a dress for the 'eco wear' round of the competition where girls have to create their own costume.

Elle is raising money for children's charity Variety and is hosting a coffee morning at the nursing home on Sunday, April 21 at 1pm.

She is also organising a fitness bootcamp with her mum and details can be found on her Facebook page.