Sunderland beauty queen's sweet success for charity

op model of Sunderland Rachael Dawson with behind (l to r) Laura Douthwaite of Willow Burn Hospice; Sharon Lashley of Enviro UK Consultants; Michelle Morrison, of House of Exquisiteness and Jennifer Clair Robson, of Jennifer Clair

Rachael Dawson, 20, of Hebburn, joined staff and Alzheimer’s Society supporters at Sunderland-based Enviro UK Consultants as they marked the occasion with a cupcake sale.

Enviro UK Consultants director Sharon Lashley, 52, whose mother Jenny has dementia, said: “I’m a huge supporter of Alzheimer’s Society so I had to do something to mark Cupcake Day.

“But having Rachael come along to lend her support has made the day extra special for us – and all of the girls have loved trying on her crown!”

Since being crowned Top Model of Sunderland 2017/18 last month, Rachael has vowed to carry out as much charity work as possible.

Later this year the make-up artist will compete in the Supermodel of England event being hosted in Barnsley.

She said: “I’ve been fundraising for Sunderland’s Foundation of Light and so far I’ve raised almost £800. Carrying out charitable work was part of the competition requirements – it certainly isn’t all about your appearance – and I intend to continue raising money for good causes.

“When I saw Sharon’s Cupcake Day sale advertised on Eventbrite I decided to call her up to see if I could offer some support.

“I don’t have any personal experience of dementia, although I know my gran’s next door neighbour and good friend had it.”

Meanwhile, staff at Sunderland’s charity arm the Foundation of Light also threw their weight behind the fundraising day, which helps fund research.