Natasha leads way in fundraising bid

DETERMINED . . . Natasha Barker is using her position as a finalist in a regional beauty competition to raise money for charity

AN Oldham cheerleader is raising as much money as she can for the Christie Young Oncology Unit after reaching the finals of the Miss North-West Beauty competition.

Natasha Barker (26) made the last 25 of the annual competition and has her sights set on the final on October 11 - where she could be crowned Miss North-West Beauty.

Part of the competition sees participants raise money for a charity of their choice. Natasha has chosen the oncology unit in honour of a family friend now in remission after treatment.

The cheerleading coach and a European cheerleading championship winner, has asked the cheerleading squads with which she is is involved to help her raise money for the unit. She has also won the support of the UK Cheerleading Association.

She said: “I am inviting other cheerleading squads to join the fundraising attempt by accepting the Christie’s Cheer Challenge. I will be organising fundraising events and charity collections to raise as much money as possible.

“This cause is close to the heart of my family. Our friends know only too well all the amazing work carried out by the Christie.”

Natasha plans to carry on raising mony long after the competition is over: her next event is a charity gala at Heyside Cricket Club on Sunday.

Anyone wanting to donate can visit: www.justgiving.com/Natasha-Barker-MissNW14.