“A FABULOUS, uplifting night.”

That was the verdict on the return of a popular fundraising fashion show at The Craiglands Hotel in Ilkley.

The Covid pandemic had seen the cancellation of the annual Ilkley Macmillan Fashion Show 2022 for the past two years.

But it was back in full swing this year thanks to a new committee led by Rachel Peru and Jo Rusden. The duo took over the organisation after the retirement of the long-standing Ilkley Macmillan Fashion show committee, who over the years have raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Macmillan charity, which supports the 179,000 people living with cancer in Yorkshire.

One hundred and fifty guests attended the event which was hosted by Andrew Dobson and Rachel Peru.

They enjoyed a two course supper and a fabulous fashion show, which included men’s and women’s autumn fashion from many local independent retailers.

There was even some time for shopping before the show with an array of independent stall holders including cookies, jewellery, women’s fashion, and lots of Christmas gift inspiration.

Rachel said: “We are proud to support local business in Ilkley and it was great to showcase 10 local retailers, offering a wide selection of fashion, something for everybody on the catwalk.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to all the model volunteers, 39 in total, who brimmed with confidence down the catwalk and helped make it a very special evening. Some who have supported this event for years and some walking for the very first time. It’s also great to see more men involved this year and they are nearly at equal numbers to the women! We even saw three generations of one family walk in the show which is a testament to how much people love being involved.

“Whilst we were all very excited to be back having fun it’s also important to remember why we support such a crucial and much needed charity. Every two minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with cancer. Committee member Julie Gilbert gave a heartfelt speech of her own family’s experience with cancer after sadly losing her son Luke, who was a well-loved model in the show, to cancer in August 2016, which was hugely appreciated and respected by everyone in the room.

“We are proud to announce the evening raised £8146.68 for the much-needed Macmillan charity and we are now looking forward to building on this year’s success with next year’s date in the diary.

“Save the date! Thursday 12th October 2023.

“Special thanks to our sponsors for their wonderful support. To all retailers involved in the show and those that kindly donated raffle prizes, supported the event and everyone that helped make the evening such a success. Thank you to photographer Adie Wormsley for donating her services for the event.

“If any local businesses or retailers would like to be involved in our 2023 event, please email ilkleyfashionshow@gmail.com for more information.”