An aspiring young model who is raising cash for charity in memory of his mum who passed away after battling cancer has told of his joy at reaching the Top Model UK 2019 finals.

Elliott Churchley, who has lived in High Wycombe all his life, says he is “excited” to take part in the men’s finals on March 24.

He has made his way to the finals following a casting back in September 2018 – and said he is thrilled at the exciting opportunity.

As well as launching him into the modelling world, the competition is also supporting Children with Cancer UK – and the charity is close to his heart after his mum was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2015 and sadly lost her battle when her son was 21.

Elliott said the model search has helped to restore his confidence after the trauma of his mum’s death – and said he is “so proud” to be supporting charity on the venture.

The Top Model 2019 model search will reach its climax at the Amba Charing Cross show finals on March 23 and 24.

The annual finals weekend will once again consist of three spectacular shows with both the 2019 finalists and top UK and international designers gracing the runway.

Elliott said: “This will be my first runway walk and I’m so excited to use all the coaching and training provided by Top Model UK in the finals.”

So far, Elliott has managed to raise more than £650 – to donate, go to topmodel2019.everydayhero.com/uk/elliott-c.