A record-breaking sum has been raised for a North-east charity, thanks to a group of 54 local men and women.
The collective, all of whom have faced cancer or a blood disorder during their lives, took part in Brave and Courage on the Catwalk – two annual charity fashion shows organised by local charity Friends of ANCHOR.
The models, aged between 19 and 82 from across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Shetland, were supported by Friends of ANCHOR through months of rehearsals and social events, with catwalk training and styling provided by Premiere Productions UK.
They took to the stage at P&J Live from 14 –17 May, where they helped raise a grand total of £419,831.60 for Friends of ANCHOR.
Duncan Whyte. Credit; Jony Dyer Photography
The charity’s chief executive Sarah Jane Hogg said: “Our models are united by their lived experience of cancer or a blood disorder. It’s something no one wants to be united by, but in volunteering to take part in these events, they’ve raised vital funds and awareness - and demonstrated to thousands that there is still so much to be celebrated.
“Brave and Courage on the Catwalk are fashion shows like no other, where each model embodies bravery, courage, resilience and strength. As they step outside of their comfort zone in ways they never imagined they would, it’s an opportunity for their loved ones to cheer them on with pride, and the atmosphere at this year’s events was electric.
“Our models have first-hand experience of being treated for cancer or a blood disorder, and they know just how important this fundraising is, as every penny directly supports our services.
“This incredible sum will have a lasting impact in the North-east, helping us continue to fund person-centred support, medical equipment and pioneering research. Thanks to our founding sponsor Balmoral Group and our event sponsors, every penny will make a difference.”
Vicky Lorimer. Credit; LK Photo Video
The models were styled in clothes from some of the region’s favourite retailers including Slater Menswear, M&S, Georgian Dress Hire, Neil Selbie & Co, Mitchell Scott, Tiger Lily Boutique, Mint Velvet and Perfect Bridal.
Across four shows at P&J Live from May 14-17, more than 3,800 guests attended, marking the events’ largest audiences to date.
Sarah-Jane continued: “With both events growing in popularity and our Courage cohort increasing in numbers this year, it was a privilege to be able to bring this experience to even more models, witnessing the positive effects ripple through to their families and friends.
“It takes a village to bring these shows together, with more than 310 volunteers, and dozens of suppliers, as well as the Premiere Productions UK team, our generous event sponsors, local retailers, dedicated staff and of course, our models. We can’t thank everyone enough for their kindness and participation in making this event what it is.”
Since Courage and Brave were established in 2013 and 2017 respectively, 486 local people have taken part.
To date, the events have collectively raised more than £2.4 million which funds additional care and support for people with cancer and blood disorders across the North-east of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland.