Mr and Miss Black Country in charity walk from Dudley to Southport

The reigning Miss Black Country and pal James Machin, who is Mr Black Country, are raising cash to help disadvantaged children.

They were taking part in an 101-mile sponsored trek from Dudley to Southport when they called into RAF Cosford Museum and Telford on the way.

Abigail, 23, chose the route as she will be appearing in the grand finals of the Miss England contest that will be held in Southport next month.

The pair won their respective titles at glittering events at the Copthorne Hotel, in Brierley Hill, West Midlands, earlier this year and have joined forces to raise money for the Miss England charity Beauty with a Purpose. Their route took them through Telford, where they stayed at the Ramada Hotel in Forge Gate, then on to Birkenhead before arriving in Southport.

The dancer, who lives in Rowley Regis, said: "It is for a good cause and the money is going to disadvantaged children at home and abroad. We hope to raise awareness about the charity through doing this walk.

"People have been showing their support by pressing their car horns and businesses have been letting us use their facilities. We are very grateful to the staff at Ramada Ironbridge for putting us up overnight as the walk is taking us three days to complete.

"I took part in the London Marathon and James is due to do a triathalon also in London. In addition to helping a good cause we're keeping fit at the same time and it is worth it when you think about the children who will benefit."

She will be dressed to the nines in snazzy evening gowns when she takes part in the Miss England extravaganza that is due to be held at Southport Theatre & Convention Centre's Floral Hall on July 21.

She hopes to impress the judges when she goes up against 49 other contestants at a fast moving fashion show at the finale.

All took part in qualifying heats that included sports/fitness and fundraising.