AN ASPIRING teenage model who suffered from curvature of her spine has reached the semi-final of her first competition.

Abbi Marsh, from Cheadle, had thought her dream was over when she was diagnosed with the back condition two years ago.

Doctors warned she could end up in a wheelchair if the surgery went wrong. But the Cheadle High School pupil was determined to give modelling a go.

Now, aged 15, Abbi pictured, is competing against 50 other girls for a place in the final of Miss Teen Princess UK.

And she wants support to help her get through to the next round of the beauty pageant.

Abbi told The Sentinel: "When I had the operation, I didn't think there was any chance of modelling at all, so I am so, so pleased I have got this far."

Abbi was diagnosed with scoliosis, curvature of the spine, in May 2008.

Her mum, Karen, had noticed a hump on her back and realised she could not stand up straight. She took Abbi to a doctor and several weeks later the teenager had corrective surgery.

The student was entered into the Miss Teen Princess UK competition by her mum.

She then received a letter asking her to attend a London photo shoot as part of the second round in February.

Her picture was uploaded on to the competition's website, where people can see the girls and vote for their favourite.

During the competition, the teenagers are split into two age groups.

Every month the two contestants from each section who have the most votes go through to the final in August.

Abbi, of Tennyson Close, said: "I have put posters all around Cheadle, in shop windows and also at my school asking people to cast their vote for me."

Karen said she knew Abbi had what it takes to become a model.

The 41-year-old administration manager said: "Whenever Abbi sets her mind to things, you know that is the path she wants to follow.

"She is a beautiful girl and has a lot of determination."

Her dad, Tim, aged 43, a JCB worker, said: "We are all very proud of her and everyone is promising to vote for her."

Two North Staffordshire teenagers are also in the final of Miss Teen Queen UK, the older version of the contest.

They are Uttoxeter 19-year-old Gemma Edwards and Leek 18-year-old Olivia Povey.

To vote for Abbi, text Abbi Marsh to 84205 or call 0901 656 1530 and enter 01. Calls and texts cost 60p plus standard network charge.

Voting is open until 11.30pm on March 31.

Visit www.missteenqueenuk.com