A LOCKDOWN fitness star has become the public face of a hit new fashion craze.

Fitness instructor Jade Gooding, 35, launched online Pilates classes after the pandemic struck.

Now she is modelling leggings which have become a must-have fashion during lockdown.

They are made by Felsted-based firm Designed by Sports, which has seen its popularity explode.

Mum-of-two Jade, from Great Maplestead, said it was her first foray into modelling profession.

She said: “They asked me to do some photo shoots and I actually had really good fun.

“It’s good to be able to help and work for a local brand. I really enjoyed it and I’m happy to see them being sold in local shops.”

“I was in Pebmarsh and I was actually stopped by a woman who said ‘You’re that Designed by Sports girl aren’t you?’

“It’s amazing.”

Designed by Sports has also teamed up with Halstead High Street clothing boutique Ruby and Violet, run by Vicky Stapleton.

Vicky was won over after buying a pair of their leggings at Christmas.

She loved them so much, she decided to approach the firm to see if they could work together.

Vicky said: “I contacted Jude at Design by Sports after ordering a pair of their leggings during lockdown and then not wanting to taking them off.

“I just thought we need to sell these. They are fantastic quality and are not just sportswear, they are comfy loungewear which is what all my ladies are wearing at the minute.

“They are such striking designs can also be glammed up for when we do eventually go out in the future.

Designed by Sports was launched by sisters Helen Byford and Jude Walthew.

Despite the pandemic, the brand is thriving, with new legging designs selling out in 24 hours thanks their passionate customer base.

Jude said: “It has been such an exciting journey we have been on this year. The opportunity to collaborate with another small business to widen our customer base is so exciting for us.

“It’s great to work together locally to help hold each other up through these tough times.”