Hats the way to race glam

Macmillan Cancer Relief and St Leonard's Hospice, both in York, are to host glamorous fashion shows before the race meeting next month.

Tomorrow, guests at the St Leonard's event will be welcomed into the Hilton Hotel for a cocktail reception.

A three-course dinner and catwalk display will follow, with designer hats, clothing, corsetry, shoes and jewellery on display.

Claire King, formerly Kim Tate in Emmerdale, will be among the Yorkshire models strutting their stuff on the catwalk.

The hotel will be decorated with floral displays by Liz Pye, of Fleur de Lys floral designs.

Meanwhile, the team at Macmillan Cancer Relief are preparing for a fashion show at Next Generation club on Wednesday, June 8.

Guests will arrive to a champagne reception and canaps, followed by a fashion show featuring clothes from Browns of York and handmade couture corset outfits from Leeds-based label Co-cu by Tortoise.

Hats supplied by The Lovely Hat Company & Great - Hatitude, shoes by Moda in Pelle, hand-made jewellery by Deborah Willis Designs and decorations by Fleur de Lys and The Little Balloon Company will also be showcased.

Janet Morley, fundraising manager at St Leonard's Hospice, said: "Liz and her team have come up with what promises to be a fabulous evening, and an ideal curtain-raiser to Royal Ascot. We are very grateful to everyone who is taking part for supporting the work of St Leonard's in this innovative way."

Macmillan fundraising manager Nikki Hawkins said: "We're delighted that Next Generation are holding this event in aid of Macmillan.

"I think the fashion show will not only be unique and fun but will also make a real difference to local people living with cancer through the money we raise."

To book tickets for the St Leonard's evening, phone Liz Pye on 01904 675709. Cheques for £30 should be made payable to Fleur de Lys.

Tickets for the Macmillan event, which cost £15, can be purchased by phoning 01904 751500.

Updated: 11:15 Thursday, May 26, 2005