Cheerleader Beth Sweetland is heading to the US in April for the Allstar World Championships.

The 21-year-old, who lives in Ebley, will be part of the Ministry of Beats Reign Adaptive Abilities cheerleading team, who will be competing in the event in Florida from 18^th-21^st of April.

“It is a dream come true,” said Beth, who was educated at Foxmoor Primary School and Maidenhill Secondary School.

Beth started cheerleading, a team-based sport combining acrobatics and dance, at the age of 14 when her mum Louise Sweetland set up her own squad called LCS Cheerleading.

Beth took on the business, which is based in the Stroud area, post-Covid and it is a role that she is enjoying and one that is all the more impressive because six years ago she was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

“It’s a long-term illness that affects many body systems,” explained Beth. “It has meant that some days doing simple tasks has been very hard.

“Cheerleading has definitely felt like it could always help me forget about my illness, it has made me stronger mentally and physically.

“I always strive to be the best I can be and now I have an opportunity to compete against some awesome cheerleaders from across the world.”

Beth needs to raise £1,000 for flights, accommodation, competition fees and much more when she is in Florida and is looking for support via https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/beth-sweetland?utm_term=m8j6MvQaG