29 November 2007

Haswell Residents Strut Their Stuff!

Residents of all ages from Haswell and Haswell Plough, County Durham, took to the catwalk on 28th November 2007 for a fashion show held at the Hazelwell Centre in Haswell, which was organised by Acumen Development Trust (Acumen), with funding from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust.

The event saw 30 local people of all shapes and sizes dressed up and strutting their stuff following weeks of preparation including a casting for models and a ‘Catwalk and Cocktails’ evening involving learning how to walk down the catwalk.

Acumen enlisted the help of North East creative session agency, The House of Madam Jojo, to choose the outfits for the models, apply their make up and style their hair.

Organiser Joanne Cook, from Acumen, whose role involves helping people in the Haswell area to move into learning and work, said: “Although the event was really glamorous and fun, it also helped to raise the confidence of those who took part and it brought the community together as there was a large audience who were all from the local area too.”

This is the second year Acumen have organised this event and Joanne added: “The show proved so successful last year that the community are still talking about it now, so I knew this year would be an even bigger hit!”

The residents were showcasing a range of the latest fashions kindly on loan from retailers including Asda George, Dewhirst Impressions, Oasis, Logo, Next, Ethel Austin, Woolworths, Peacocks, New Look, Select and a stunning evening collection including a wedding dress on loan from Just Perfect Bridal Wear in Shotton Colliery.

Amelia Ramsay, from Haswell, who modelled on the night, said: “I am normally a shy person but the fashion show has really boosted my confidence.  The audience was very supportive, plus I enjoyed having my hair styled and make up applied professionally.”

All proceeds from the ticket sales were donated to Mancap, Hazelwell Centre (Community Centre), St Pauls Church and Haswell Methodist Chapel.