FASHION and fundraising went hand in hand to help raise vital funds for breast screening.

The Echo has teamed up with Choice Discount Fashion Stores to host a charity fashion show.

The evening raised money for the Westcliff-based Lady McAdden Breast Sceening unit.

The glitzy event took place at the Boatyard Restaurant, Leigh, on Wednesday, and showcased the fashion chain’s autumn and winter collection.

Con Donovan, managing director of Choice, said: “We’ve held charity events in the past, but never put on a fashion show before.

“But fashion is what we do, so it seemed like the perfect way to raise money for such a worthwhile charity.”

And a perfect way it was, as the night raised £1,620 for the charity, which provides a well woman clinic, offering breast screening to the appropriate age group of women, and offering help and advice to women of all ages to be breast aware.

The evening began with a three-course meal for guests, including winners of the Echo’s reader competition, before Heart FM’s Martin and Su took to the stage to compere the fashion show.

Fifteen models, made up of staff from Choice stores who had volunteered their time, took to the catwalk to show off the latest in-store creations, many of which are from the Next fashion line.

Mr Donovan said: “I am so delighted and impressed by our staff for stepping up and taking part in the show. These were not professional models and yet they put on a professional show which was thoroughly enjoyable to watch.

“They really proved that you don’t have to spend a lot to look good at Choice and were a credit to the company.”

The cash raised on the night through ticket sales will go towards the breast unit’s campaign to raise funds for digital mammography equipment.

The charity is currently raising £250,000 to buy the latest technology, to improve the chances of detecting breast cancer early, and thus improve the chances for successful treatment.

Linda Harrison, manager said: “We are very grateful for the efforts of Choice Discount Stores and the Echo.

“The money raised will certainly help our endeavours to diagnose breast cancer in its infancy. We hope to be in the position to install the new equipment at the end of March 2012.

“We would like to say a big thank you to all those involved in the fashion show.

“It takes a lot of hard work to put on events such as this and we really appreciate that effort.”

For more information on the Lady McAdden Breast Screening Appeal, go to www.

ladymcaddenbreastunit.co.uk