RESIDENTS from a block of retirement apartments in Ringwood held a fashion show to raise funds for a children's hospices.

Older people and staff from McCarthy and Stone's Cornmantle Court development modelled designs from M&Co and Roman Originals in the homeowners lounge, as well as enjoying a glass of bubble and nibbles in support of the Broadstone-based, Julia's House.

Looks shown off during the event ranged in theme from Ladies that Lunch to A Day at the Races, featuring sparkly tops, elegant dresses and light summer knits on the catwalk.

Audrey Merrington, one of the homeowners at Cornmantle Court, said: "We were all practising our best Twiggy poses in the run up to the event, and it was great fun feeling like a supermodel for an afternoon.

"It was such a treat to be able to try out some of the latest looks and admire all of the lovely clothes on offer."

Jacqui Meenan, regional sales and marketing director from McCarthy and Stone South West, said: "It was fantastic to welcome so many new faces down to the development and to see some more familiar ones taking their turn down the runway."

She added that homeowners and staff all had a brilliant time and thanked M&Co and Roman Originals for their involvement in the afternoon.

Caroline Attreed, corporate fundraiser at Julia's House, said: "We are thrilled that companies such as McCarthy and Stone are taking such an interest in the work that we do, and we appreciate the huge effort that all of the ladies made to support us."

She added that Julia's House relies on donations to be able to run our lifeline services for families with very poorly children who are not expected to live into adulthood.

"The funds raised will help to ensure that we can continue to deliver essential 24/7 support to families, helping them make the most of their precious time together."