A COMMUNITY fashion extravaganza took place in Tavistock recently, to raise money for three Devon charities.

The Ecovision fashion show was held at the Bedford Hotel, to raise money for Children's Hospice South West, St Luke's Hospice and Friends of the Wharf.

The event was organised by Dr Ann Pulsford on behalf of the Friends of the Wharf as part of the Taylor Made project supported by Tavistock and Villages Initiative and Dartmoor Local Enterprise Action Fund. The project is designed to stimulate local business creativity and co-operation. The event was attended by more than two hundred people including the models and the guests.

Thanks to the enormous generosity of the Bedford Hotel management, the beautiful modern space of Gallery 26 was provided completely free as a wonderful venue for the fashion show, together with a sumptuous tea, for the 100 guests seated at the tables.

Dr Pulsford said: 'Although the hotel was completely full for the weekend with many other groups and events, they also provided three free rooms as changing facilities, and the conservatory portrait room without charge for models from St Luke's to practise their event during the preceding week.'

The fashion show began with two local Tavistock businesses, Image at Dartmoor Country Clothes managed by Sharron Wilkie and Quinns menswear managed by Ian Pitts. They presented clothes for the spring and summer for all age groups and occasions including weddings.

This was followed by a beautiful woodland wedding-themed presentation of clothes from talented local young designers Lucie Ponsford and Eloise Sentito. The two young designers use reclaimed materials to stunning effect in their work.

Children's Hospice South West gave an inclusive show of clothes for all ages now available for sale from their shop. They used models who work as volunteers in the shop, and their memorable finale included wedding outfits modelled by manageress Sarah Taylor and Rob Jennings, a volunteer.

The fashion event concluded with some stunning re-styled clothes from St Luke's Hospice inspired by the remarkable creativity of Sue Redford led by Jane Portman, manageress. They also used some models who work as volunteers in the shop.

The event was a complete sellout and all the ticket sales and raffle money will be divided between the participating charities.

A raffle with items donated from local individuals and businesses including the Co-op and Somerfield, organised by Vanni Cook and Jan Robinson, raised £93.10.

The total proceeds to date currently stands at £869.10 and will be divided between the participating charities.

Dr Pulsford said: 'The feedback from many of the guests for the Ecovision fashion show was that it was a hugely enjoyable, inclusive and memorable community event which featured a remarkable number of local models.'

In addition to the fashion show, the hotel also provided space for a small business fair in the Russell lounge.

This gave the opportunity for fashion and arts associated businesses to display their creativity and events. Those participating included the Wharf, Friends of the Wharf, Tavistock Music and Arts Festival, Image at Dartmoor Country Clothes and Felt Amazing hats; Giselle Designs and Re:invent.

A patchwork quilt and watercolour painting from Children's Hospice shop was also offered for sealed bids but unfortunately did not achieve the reserve prices and will be available for further bids at Children's Hospice South West shop in West Street.