A single mum who was homeless with her son just last year has been selected to compete in the Miss Big and Beautiful competition in Montserrat.

Ramsgate singer Amanda White, who also works as a carer giving respite to parents of disabled children, says she is ecstatic to be representing all the 'big girls' out there.

But the 53-year-old admits the competition is still out of her reach as she is desperately trying to raise £800 for the trip out there.

"When I found out I had been selected, I was in shock - I didn't tell anyone for about two months," she said.

"I saw an advert on Facebook asking whether 'you have what it takes' for ladies of a plus size or with curves.

"When I was growing up I was really quiet, I went through a bit of bullying at school, so now I thought 'why not?'

"This isn't just confidence for me but for other big girls out there.

'I was in Stars in Their Eyes as Dinah Washington but this is so different to that' - Amanda White

"Me and my son were homeless last year, our lives have turned around and this is something I would love to do for all us women."

But when she went to sign up she found out the age specification was 18 to 50.

After sending them a picture of herself, they increased the top age to 60 and then contacted her to say she had been selected.

"I'm the only woman from Britain competing," she said.

"I'm nervous, it's very daunting.

"I was in Stars in Their Eyes as Dinah Washington but this is so different to that - this is me putting myself out there in swim wear, evening wear, all sorts."

For Ms White it is an emotional turn in fortune, a year after her and her 16-year-old son found themselves homeless.

Now back on their feet, she wants to inspire others, but admits she is not certain she can definitely compete.

"My chaperone, who does beauty and would have helped me, has had to drop out due to finances and I'm also finding it hard to try to get the money for flights out there," she said.

"I'd be so grateful if anyone could help.

"It's too late to do a fundraising singing performance now, but I can do one when I get back for all the people that helped me."

The competition is on December 26.

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