OKEHAMPTON Ladies' Circle organised a hugely successful 'swish evening' in Belstone Village Hall recently, to raise money for local counselling service supporting young people.

More than 70 ladies attended the evening, which raised more than £800 for Tor Support Services based at Okehampton Community Centre, Okehampton College.

'Swishing' involves swopping glamorous clothes for new outfits. The village hall was transformed into a clothing boutique, complete with changing room.

'Colour me beautiful' image advisor Pat Averst was available throughout the evening to offer 'Trinny and Suzanna' style advice on what to wear — and what to avoid!

Local health and beauty salons Lola Peskett and Heavenly made generous donations to a bumper raffle. Other fantastic prizes included a voucher for Temple Spa and donations from many local businesses such as In House, Lavender Beauty, Zeals, Kathy Curtis with V @Home, Lola's Beauty and Quinn's Hair Salon.

Ciara White, lead counsellor for Tor Support Services, outlined its importance and the difference it makes to individuals and families.

Tiffany Macedo-Dine, chair of Okehampton Ladies Circle, said: 'We wanted to support something very local and being a ladies' circle we chose Tor Support Services as it helps children and young adults. It ticked all of our boxes so we thought it would be ideal for our first fundraising project.'

Anne Underwood, who manages the service was very moved by the overwhelming success of the Swish evening. She said: 'I want to thank Okehampton Ladies Circle so much for supporting Tor Support Service.

Okehampton Ladies Circle, a group similar to the Round Table, is looking for new women members — for more information call Tiffany or Kathy on 075642 66461. For more information on Tor Support Services call 01837 650910 extension 217.