A TEN-YEAR-OLD girl with a rare muscle-wasting condition has been named a finalist in the GoCardless JustGiving Awards after raising more than £400,000.

Carmela Chillery-Watson, from Wareham, took part in her third catwalk at the Bristol Fashion Show, with all proceeds going to Muscular Dystrophy UK and also took part in a 100-mile sponsored walk for Julia's House Children Hospice where Carmela receives respite care.

Proud mum Lucy Chillery-Watson, said: "Carmela had an absolute blast at this year's Bristol Fashion Show. We do not know how long she will have use of her arms and legs, but we do know that her star will continue to shine bright no matter what she faces."

In addition to raising much-needed funds for charity, Carmela's efforts have seen her recognised as one of three finalists for the Young Fundraiser of the Year Award.

Carmela was diagnosed with LMNA congenital muscular dystrophy, a very rare progressive muscle wasting condition, when she was just three-and-a-half years old.

The condition, which is life-threatening, impacts muscle and motor functions, as well as breathing and heart function. 

Lucy added: "It brings so much joy to Carmela to help raise much needed funds for Muscle Dystrophy UK. It's been fantastic to see her hard work recognised with a JustGiving Award nomination – we hope this helps raise more money and awareness for charity."

Carmela will be joined by 20 other finalists at this year's GoCardless JustGiving Awards on September 18. 

The finalists were chosen by a panel of judges, including professional strictly dancer Amy Dowden, broadcaster Adele Roberts, TV personality Jake Quickenden, Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds, TV presenter Sunetra Sarker and returning judge radio presenter Rickie Haywood Williams.

They were also joined by JustGiving president Pascale Harvie and managing director at headline sponsor GoCardless, Pat Phelan.

Pascale Harvie, president and general manager of JustGiving, said: Carmela's positive outlook and determination to help others is truly inspiring.

"Whittling down almost 20,000 nominations to just a handful is no easy task, and all of our fundraisers should be commended. However, Carmela's story really did stand out and we're so excited to celebrate her achievements at our award ceremony."