Two former pupils from Stokesley School always said they wanted to work together and they finally did by creating a sell-out charity event at the Mill in Stokesley.

Alex Cook, joint owner of the pub, and voted best newcomer to the pub industry this year, invited Kate Fearnley, fashion designer, and Cosmopolitan magazine’s Woman of the Year, to organise a charity event to raise money for cancer research. The tickets sold out in 3 days and the food, welcome drink, services of hairdressers, models and live music from Amelia Coburn were all given free of charge.

Kate, who has dressed many famous people for red carpet events including Michelle Keegan, Katie Price and Cheryl Cole, has a unique style of combining beautiful fabrics with flattering lines and a vibrant combination of colours. As a member of the audience remarked, “ All her clothes have the WOW factor.” The models were a mix of all ages, and some wore their own prom and bridal dresses which Kate had designed especially for them.

“ I don’t just dress thin young girls, “ said Kate. “Each dress is bespoke and is made to order by appointment. We combine our ideas and each dress is made for the individual.” She was pleased to be able to work with Alex to raise money for such a good cause.

George Grant aged 18 from Hutton Rudby, was one of the two boys who agreed to be models for the night. “ We were really nervous, “ he said, “ but it was fantastic. We really enjoyed it.”

Members of the audience dressed up for the glamorous occasion, and the champagne corks were popping. Rachel Bibby spoke for a group of 10 friends who had come to support the event.“ We have really enjoyed it, and wanted to support this charity as some of our family members have been touched by cancer. Kate is a local girl and we wanted to support her as well.”

Kathryn Harrison agreed. “ All of us have lost friends or family members and have had close family survive cancer so we are all motivated to support,” she said.