Mission to stop bullies

Amiee Hempsall, Miss Junior Bispham 2017 contestant (centre), with police officers outside Bispham Police Station, and Anthony Turner (left) pageant director

Anthony Turner, director of the Miss Junior Bispham contest, says he is determined to get out the message bullying is not acceptable.

The Miss Junior Bispham competition – launched last year – aims to boost the confidence and self-esteem of all contestants, as well as raising money for Cancer Research UK and encouraging girls taking part to help local charities and their local community.

The contestants for next year’s pageant are currently busy, making appearances at local shops, community groups and charities, as well as organising fundraising events.

Contestant Amiee Hempsall recently made an appearance at Bispham Police Station – where officers were happy to back the anti-bullying message, as well as shops around Bispham village.

Anthony has set up a Facebook page entitled Let’s Raise The Crown Against Bullying to get the message across about stamping out bullying and support victims.

He said: “I decided to start an anti-bullying group and want to get across it’s not on or big to bully someone else.

“I went to our local police station and the police are supporting us.

“I myself have been through bullying, it’s horrible, and I want to try to put a stop to it.

“Everybody knows that self-harm, suicide and mental health issues can be partially caused by bullying.

“So from this day forward I want to get the word out it stops now. It’s not big of anyone to bully someone else, and I am asking everyone to help me spread the word.

“I have a lovely young lady in my beauty pageant, called Amiee Hempsall, who is going through a bit of a bad time, as she is being bullied.

“It is now in-hand hopefully. She’s campaigning to raise the issue of bullying. She is a bright young lady and I really want to boost her confidence.

“I would like to thank police sergeant Whyatt, PCSO Fryer and PCSO Crichton, from Bispham Police Station.”

Also pictured is contestant Angel Gregson, making an appearance at Brian House Children’s Hospice, Bispham.

The pageant is holding a car boot on the December 4 and a Christmas fete on December 21, with some of the proceeds going to Cancer Research UK.

Some of the contestants will be there helping and meeting members of the public.

Both events will be held at Bispham Conservative Club.