Student Vicky Balch makes catwalk debut four months after losing right leg in horrific rollercoaster crash at Alton Towers | London Evening Standard

Student Vicky Balch makes catwalk debut four months after losing right leg in horrific rollercoaster crash at Alton TowersVicky Balch, 20, had to have her right leg amputated below the knee after she was one of four people seriously injured when the Smiler crashed at Alton Towers in JuneInspiration: Vicky Balch makes her catwalk debut at London fashion showKatie Crane

A student who lost her right leg following a horrific rollercoaster crash at Alton Towers has made her catwalk debut in London.

Vicky Balch, 20, took part in a fashion show organised by Models of Diversity, a group that promotes disabled models and calls for more diversity in the beauty industry, in Shepherd's Bush.

Miss Balch had to have her right leg amputated below the knee after was sitting in the front of the Smiler when it crashed into an empty carriage, leaving four people seriously injured.

The University of Derby student underwent six operations when the surgeon discovered an infection had gone down to the bone, meaning her leg had to be amputated.

Brave: Vicky Balch at the catwalk show in Shepherd's BushKatie Crane

Her appearance on Saturday was hailed as a remarkable step in her recovery with well wishers describing her as an "inspiration".

Dave Hargreave tweeted: "She is such a Marvellous and Beautiful young lady a true inspiration Wishing you all the best Vicky"

Katie Crane replied: "you're telling me? absolutely wonderful person! her confidence inspires me everyday!"

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Fellow model Tereza Brantlova posted: "Vicky you rocked it!!! pleasure to be on the same runway with you! XX"

Miss Balch took to the catwalk with crutches and a leg support as she styled a checked shirt and black strapless evening dress.

Television presenter Gail Porter and Gogglebox star Sandy Channer also took part in Saturday's show.

Stylish: Miss Balch modelled a checked shirt and black strapless evening dress at the Models of Diversity event Luke DeardsLuke Deards

Gemma Flanagan, ambassador for Models of Diversity, said: "Vicky is in support of our petition we have launched for disabled models to be regularly used in fashion.

"Models of Diversity is about bringing diversity into fashion. Regardless of age, size, disability or ethnicity we believe that everyone should be represented.

"We campaign tirelessly to provide inspiration, representation and hope for those who are otherwise left out and discriminated against by the fashion industry."

To view the petition click here