A FASHION store in York whose brand is popular with the Duchess of Cambridge is hosting a charity event to help families stricken by cancer.

LK Bennett, the UK label propelled into the big league by “the Kate effect”, is staging a fundraising fashion show at its Petergate branch tomorrow in aid of Sara’s Hope Foundation.

The north east-based charity, set up in memory of Sara Hoburn, who died at 16 from cancer in 2001, runs a holiday retreat in Crete offering respite for young cancer patients and their families.

Event organiser Liz Ruane said they hoped to raise enough to be able to send three families to Crete to help create lasting memories and provide a break from lengthy hospital stays and gruelling treatment.

Liz, who works with NFU Mutual in York, said the event was the latest in a series of fundraisers she and colleagues had held after their regional director challenged staff to raise as much as possible for charity in six months.

“He gave us £50 to start with, and it ends at the end of July,” she said. “With Sara’s Hope Foundation being a small charity it is easy to see the difference we can make.”

So far Liz’s team has raised about £2,000, but she said: “I am really hoping to get to £3,000.

“That’s what it would cost to send three families.”

The fashion show, also featuring York-based Kathryn Rolfe Lingerie and Swimwear, has attracted support from local businesses – host LK Bennett is also contributing ten per cent of sales to the cause – including Hotel Du Vin, which is supplying Champagne, and York-based faceetc …medispa, which is providing mini treatments and makeovers at the event.

There will also be a raffle, with prizes such as golfing at Aldwark Manor.

The event starts at 6pm on Thursday. Tickets costing £5 can be obtained by phoning Liz Ruane on 01904 683520, or on the door, subject to availability.