A MISS Wales finalist is set to embark on a running-orientated charity fundraiser.

Paige Gershenson will take part in the 10k St David’s Day run in Cardiff on February 28 in her efforts to raise funds for Beauty With A Purpose.

The 20-year-old full-time Access to HE student is also planning to embark on a Welsh Three Peaks challenge in the second weekend in March, also for the charity, after she completes the month-long charity initiative called the Fab Feb Fundraiser in which more than 40 Miss Wales finalists are taking part.

The former High Street Primary and Bryn Hafren Comprehensive pupil is currently attending Coleg y Cymoedd, in Nantgarw, and hoping to go to university this September to study economics.

She volunteers for local charities such as Llamau whilst also raising money for Beauty With A Purpose.

She was once an advanced gymnast at Barry YMCA winning numerous medals and awards, attending a competition in America, and being considered for the Welsh squad.

She then went on to volunteer - coaching gymnastics at the YMCA, at 14 years of age, for two years before getting a hospitality job at the Mount Sorrel Hotel.

But she still found time to enter the contest in August last year and was selected as a finalist by email.

Miss Gershenson said: “I remember the exact moment I read that email and started crying!! I thought it was a long shot entering but ever since getting that email my confidence has grown tremendously and I'd love to follow in the footsteps of Helen Morgan who's also from Barry and went ahead to win both Miss Wales and Miss World."

Speaking about the St David's Day run she said: “My mother does a lot of running, but I'm much more of a walker myself. She inspired me to get out of my comfort zone and try something different, to push myself. This is something I've wanted to do for a long time.”

Miss Wales organiser, Paula Abbandonato said: “Miss Wales is committed to Beauty With A Purpose and that means empowering young women and raising money for good causes through the glamour and fun of pageantry. The girls get to make great friends and experience new opportunities while really doing their bit for charity.”

The Miss Wales final takes place in April.

To support Miss Gershenson visit bit.ly/1PUrtA2