Brave Dawn Cherry, 16, from Fauldhouse, will strut her stuff down the catwalk at Debenhams in The Centre tomorrow (Friday) just four months after leaving hospital following an operation to have two rods and ten screws inserted into her back.

The St Kentigern's Academy pupil suffered from a severe case of Scoliosis – curvature of the spine – before her operation and she now wants to help the people of Haiti after the devastating earthquake which hit the country's capital Port-au-Prince last month.

"Taking part in the fashion show means a lot to me as I never thought I'd be able to help people out this way before or be able to take part," said Dawn.

"I was always conscious of my back and its curve, and modelling is something I've always wanted to do.

"This shows that there's a lot more to modelling than just walking up and down. It can really make a difference, and to be a part of it has shown me that even though I've been through a tough time, it doesn't mean I can't help others out when they need it most."

The youngster is one of the contestants from the Miss West Lothian event taking part in the Debenhams fashion show.

Around 18 girls have been busy practising for the fundraiser, which will adopt a Red theme to show support and solidarity for the survivors and dead in Haiti. Every girl taking part will wear at least one item with red in it.

The Herald & Post, and its appeal partners, West Lothian Council and World Emergency Relief, are encouraging people to wear something red to work on Friday, 5 February.

There will be three fashion shows tomorrow afternoon at 1.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm.

Customers can donate to the appeal via collection buckets or at the till in store. Debenhams Livingston staff are also joining the appeal by wearing red and donating £1 each.

Sales manager Lorna Capon said: "Debenhams Livingson is pleased to be able to play its part in helping such a worthy cause. We are sure our customers and staff will enjoy the fund-raising events on Friday."

The girls have been styled by image consultant Maureen Palmer, and Infinity Balloons are providing the archway for the catwalk free of charge.