A CATWALK model is giving cancer survivors the chance to sparkle.

Firefighter Kirsty Hornby, 29, UK Royak Ms beauty pageant winner, is helping Widnes mum Sam Lewis to stage a charity fashion show.

Breast cancer survivor Sam launched the Sam’s Diamonds support group two years ago to give women who are young at heart the strength to conquer the disease.

The 42-year-old, from Farnworth, wants to celebrate the determination women have shown as they battle for survival.

Kirsty, who is travelling to Orlando later this month to compete for the Royal International Miss title, said: “Sam is such a strong, inspirational woman.

“Her charity is precious to those women who have been on or completed their cancer journey.”

Sam had six months of chemotherapy, a full mastectomy and radiotherapy.

The mum-of-three said: “This is all about getting self-esteem and confidence.

“Twenty-three of our ladies will have a complete makeover and strut their stuff and tear up the runway.

“It will be a tear-jerker but a very positive celebration.”

Sam is Kirsty’s former secondary school PE teacher.

Kirsty added: “Hearing about the challenges faced by Sam and her family throughout her treatment made me want to contribute to her charity and help other brave women undergoing the same struggles.

“The Sam’s Diamond fashion show will give these remarkable women and their children the chance to take part in a fun, glamorous event and hopefully raise money for a very worthy cause.

“We hope everyone will come along, have fun and help give these ‘diamond’ women an evening to remember.”

The group recently welcomed its 100th member.

Sam’s Diamonds fashion show will be held at the Select Security Stadium in Widnes next Saturday, June 24.

The catwalk starts at 6pm.

Marks and Spencer in Widnes is providing clothes with Cinders Party Dress in Hale village.

Tesco Widnes is providing clothes for the children.

Clothes and prom dresses donated by boutiques and designers will be auctioned off on the night.

The evening will include live performances by Abby Marshall and Motown band Dirty Little Secret.

Health and wellbeing stalls and cancer support agencies will also be taking part.

Tickets priced £10 for adults and £5 for children are available from 01744 815548 or via e-mail at samsdiamonds@hotmail.com.

All proceeds are being donated to Sam’s Diamonds.

The charity holds fortnightly meetings across the north west to help women make like-minded friends while undergoing treatment.