Cookstown charity fashion extravaganza

Julian Simmons to compere Cookstown charity fashion extravaganza in aid of St Vincent de Paul

The people of Cookstown are in for a stylish treat on 24th May when SVP takes over Glenavon House Hotel for its fabulous fashion extravaganza.  The spectacular show, which is being compered by local celebrity, Julian Simmons, will see models walk down the catwalk wearing a variety of bespoke outfits from ten Vincent’s shops across the province.

Jovial host Julian will narrate the show with his usual much-loved ‘banter’ as local models, most of whom are SVP volunteers, manoeuvre the catwalk.

Anne Crossan, regional retail services manager for SVP, comments: “We have extremely generous benefactors to whom we are very grateful for all of the fabulous clothing and accessory donations.  On many occasions, we are gifted with designer, couture and vintage items and it is these unique, top-of the-range, chic items that will be modelled at our fashion show.

“There will also be a bridal element to our catwalk show, with all of the wedding attire supplied by Vincent’s in Portadown, who will be showcasing some of the elegant dresses and outfits that they have in stock.

“The clothes rails in all of our lovely, bright Vincent’s shops across Northern Ireland are jam-packed with ‘just what your wardrobe is missing’!  There really are so many beautiful, pre-loved garments and hidden gems in our stores that I’d encourage everyone to visit their local Vincent’s as they are bound to find something special.

“We were delighted that Julian Simmons agreed to support us at this upcoming event and we know that his wit and humour will make the evening even more memorable for our guests.  We look forward to welcoming not only the people of Cookstown but our supporters far and wide to the Glenavon House Hotel for what promises to be a fantastic event.”

Tickets for the Vincent’s Fashion Show, which starts at 7pm on Thursday 24 May, are available at a cost of £10 per person from SVP Regional Office on the Antrim Road or from Vincent’s shops in: Ormeau Rd, Belfast, Strabane, Ballymena, Kilrea, Keady, Lurgan, Cookstown and Portadown.

Anne added: “We hope to be well-supported by the community and as there is limited space at the venue, I would advise anyone hoping to attend to secure their ticket as soon as possible.

“As well as a welcome drinks’ reception, all guests at the event will receive a goody bag.  They will also have the chance to buy the items that have been modelled on the catwalk, which will all be available post-show, along with other fabulous finds, at our Vincent’s pop-up shop at the venue.  The bridal dresses and wedding attire will also be available for purchase on the evening.”

All funds raised from the show will go to supporting SVP’s work in local communities.  The Society is active in every single village, town and city across Northern Ireland and supports people in need at a grassroots level, as well as working to eliminate the causes of poverty through practical support and friendship, promoting self-sufficiency and working for social justice.

Anne concludes: “Our network of 33 Vincent’s shops across Northern Ireland supports the Society’s work and helps to raise vital funds within local communities.  We aim to make the most difference that we can with the resources that we generate through our shops or that are kindly donated by our generous supporters.

“We look forward to this event with great excitement and there is a real buzz among the shop teams taking part.”