The People’s Catwalk – a charity walk with a difference…

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to strut down a real catwalk with a bank of photographers snapping away? Ever wanted to raise funds for charity in a glamorous way? Well, now you can - with a unique once-in-a-lifetime chance to model for The Prince’s Trust at The Trafford Centre.

STARTS DESIGN guru Jeff Banks CBE has chosen Manchester to host the first ever “People’s Catwalk” – a new concept in glamorous fund-raising. The first-ever event of its kind, The People’s Catwalk takes place The Trafford Centre on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 September - and anyone can take part. Over the course of two days, a full size catwalk will be set up in The Orient and everyone is invited to strut their stuff no matter what their age, gender or ability. Says Jeff Banks: “When we created this fabulous event, we couldn’t think of a better city to hold it in than Manchester – the fashion epicentre of the North, and one of the most style-conscious cities in the UK. “The People’s Catwalk will appeal to anybody who has harboured a dream of coming down the catwalk looking a million dollars – and what better venue than The Trafford Centre, which leads the way in fashion retail for this whole region? “The concept is simple, but beautiful – like good fashion! “Each member of the public who wants to model buys a limited edition tote bag for £10, with all proceeds going straight to The Prince’s Trust in the North West to help their award-winning work with disadvantaged young people. “Then, it’s a simple matter of getting your hair and make-up done professionally and for free at one of our pamper pods around the Centre – before changing into the outfit you’ve bought for the occasion. “A posse of professional photographers will take their positions to catch you looking stunning in the limelight – and we’ll even email over your catwalk image for you to treasure forever. “I’ve enlisted the support of a host of stars from the worlds of TV, sport and fashion who will be there on the day – but the real stars of the show will be the people themselves, as they experience what it’s like to be centre stage on a real catwalk, music playing and lights blaring. Adds Jeff: “You can catwalk alone, or with friends and colleagues. You could make it a family affair – or turn the event into a girls’ night out - complete with the feel-good glow of knowing you have helped The Prince’s Trust fulfil its vital mission of helping turn young lives around.” Gordon McKinnon, director of operations at The Trafford Centre, said: “We are famous for our stunning catwalk shows here at The Trafford Centre – so when Jeff and his team approached us to hold this inaugural event we were delighted to be able to help. “We’ll be launching our Autumn Winter ranges at the same time as The People’s Catwalk, so stores will be stocked full of the latest trends. “If you’d like a unique photo of you in your best outfit, hair and make-up done for free – and raise cash for the hugely worthwhile cause at the same time – then take your place on the People’s Catwalk, and live that dream!” Jackie Tyler, regional director for The Prince’s Trust in the North West said: “It is fundraising events like this that enable us to continue our work in the region, giving disadvantaged young people a chance to reach their potential and find talents they never knew they had. Each year in the North West, with the public’s help, we give 4,400 young people the chance to turn their back on a life on the dole and become an active member of our community.” Gary Stein, station director Key103, added: "Key103 can't wait to see what Manchester's wearing down the catwalk. This is going to be the fashion parade of the year with real models and the true style of Manchester on show for all to see “Mike and Chelsea will be helping Jeff and the Princes Trust execute this one-off event in style. They've even got some surprises in store too. “Key103 and the Trafford Centre make a great partnership - add the expertise and knowledge of Jeff Banks and it's set to be truly unmissable!" Over two days of brilliant beauty and fashion in The Orient there will be: • Celebrity guest presenters, led by designer Jeff Banks and Key 103’s Chelsea Norris, introducing you onto the catwalk • Appearances on the catwalk by a host of special guests including Prince’s Trust celebrity Ambassadors. • Music and competitions provided by Key 103 and appearances from its top DJ’S. • A professional Model agency panel comprising of top London and Manchester model spotters searching for new talent. • A team of professional photographers stationed at the end of the catwalk will take your picture and email it to you. • Professional Pamper Pods set up around the Trafford Centre who will provide free hair and makeup. • Raffles, competitions and prizes and the chance to walk down the catwalk with a celebrity. • Live acts and entertainment over the two days. • Changing facilities. Simply buy an outfit or an item from any store in the Trafford Centre – it could be a dress, suit, hat or jewellery then pay the £10 charity entry fee and receive your free ‘People’s Catwalk’ bag - then strut your stuff down the catwalk with your own unique model number. The People’s Catwalk – the idea is simple, but the effect will be stunning… Editor’s Notes: Jeff Banks CBE Renowned designer Jeff Banks CBE is recognised everywhere as a design expert, commentator, businessman and the face of The Clothes Show, as well as being one of the high-profile supporters of The Prince’s Trust. Jeff is currently chairperson of the Retail Leadership Group at the Prince’s Trust, a group which aims to promote corporate social responsibility in the UK retail industry. The Prince’s Trust Youth charity The Prince's Trust helps change young lives. It gives practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. It works with 14-to-30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. The Prince of Wales’s charity has helped more than 600,000 young people since 1976 and supports 100 more each working day. More than three in four young people helped by The Prince’s Trust move into work, training or education. Just £3 a month can provide two weeks support for a vulnerable young person, helping turn around a young life. Further information about The Prince’s Trust is available at www.princes-trust.org.uk or on 0800 842 842. The Trafford Centre The Trafford Centre is the epicentre of fashion in the North of England, with the best selection of designer and high street stores in one place, outside of London’s Oxford Street. The Centre’s Autumn Winter fashion campaign will see the return of our annual VIP Fashion Show (September 9) and a full weekend of rolling catwalk events (September 11+12), finishing with the People’s Catwalk (September 18+19). For more detail or media tickets to any of these events, please contact The Trafford Centre press office on: jwebb@traffordcentre.co.uk ENDS