AN insight into the fashion of Jane Austin has helped raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.

Julia Soares-McCormick entertained and informed guests about the history of Regency clothing between 1811 and 1820, using costumes she made herself.

The talk at Sedgefield Parish Hall was organised by the town's mayor Gloria Wills, who was joined by residents and the mayors of Bishop Auckland, Barnard Castle, Newton Aycliffe, Hartlepool, South Tyneside and Brandon and Byshottles.

Ms Wills said: “Mrs Soares-McCormick’s talk includes lots about how the costumes were made and how they would have affected the people’s lives who wore them. The clothes were very impractical. Imagine going out in the rain wearing such a long dress.”

Dubbed as an insight into the world of Jane Austin’s clothing, the five costumes, made by Mrs Soares-McCormick, from Cramlington, Northumberland were explained along with some historical background.

She was assisted by her husband, Mick Soares-McCormick who demonstrated how the Spencer coat got its name after Earl Spencer of the period burnt his frock coat while standing too close to the fire.

out how the costumes were made and how they would have affected the people’s lives who wore them. The clothes were very impractical. Imagine going out in the rain wearing such a long dress.”

The event was supported by Sedgefield businesses along with Sedgefield's pensioner support group, Days In Days Out.