A STOURPORT fashion show with a difference has raised more than £1,500 for Cancer Research UK.

Mike Griffiths and Jan Smith, from the charity’s Wyre Forest Committee, challenged people to put together a stunning outfit costing £15 or less by rummaging through charity shops.

Around 20 models then showcased the bargain outfits at the Dress for Less fashion Show at the Hallmark Stourport Manor.

The winner of the audience vote was 19-year-old Sam Boulton, who had spent just £8 on his casual trousers and shirt from Kidderminster’s Kemp Hospice shop.

The evening also featured displays from local outlets including cancer survivor Abberley-based Claire Nicklin’s Fox and Fettle.

The former art teacher started printing her own designs onto linens, velvets and silks, creating bespoke cushions, scarves, bowls and lampshades as therapy during six years overcoming breast cancer, which she has transformed into a successful business.

Claire said: “I wanted to be part of this event because it’s such a good opportunity to get out and meet people, to network and to support the charity that has done so much to help me.”

Other businesses taking part were Neal’s Yard Remedies, Hayley’s Healthy Living, Sparkly Styles, BlueKat Design and the Cambridge Weight Plan.

Mr Griffiths said: “This event was a first for the Wyre Forest Cancer Research UK committee and was a resounding success. It looks like will be doing a repeat next year.

“I would like to thank all those who took the trouble to seek out outfits from their favourite charity shops and were brave enough to step onto the catwalk to show them off, to what was a most appreciative audience, whom I am also very grateful to for turning up to give their support and help to raise such a substantial sum to continue the fight against this dreadful disease.”