BEING shy and struggling to communicate in crowded places has not stopped a nine-year-old girl from raising hundreds of pounds for charity.

Jessica Carter-Bailey has worn hearing aids since was diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss, a genetic condition her dad and brother also have.

Despite affecting her confidence when she was younger, the Leigh Central Primary School pupil has managed to overcome her shyness since she joined the 13th Leigh Cub Scouts when she was eight years old.

Mum Angela said: "She was very shy when she was younger but as she has got older her confidence has grown and cubs has really helped with that," she said.

"They have been absolutely brilliant.

"All the children have learnt what it is like for Jess and the leaders have taken everything we have said on board."

It has helped her confidence so much that Jessica, of Willow Crescent, Leigh, decided she wanted to hold a charity event for the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) in order to complete the Silver Chief Scout Award set by leader Penny Rothwell.

Ms Carter-Bailey said: "The charity is very close to our hearts as they have given us a lot of support so we were very proud when Jess decided to fundraise for them.

"We spent all the day before baking — I was her apprentice — and she made about 60 loom bands to sell. It really was a fantastic event and she is already thinking of other ways she can fundraise for the charity."

Jessica raised £265.70 for the NDCS by hosting games and selling her cakes and bracelets at a cubs meeting.