Aspiring Sunderland model staging fashion show for charity

Sarah Barnes, who is one of the finalists in the Top Model of Sunderland this year, is organising a fashion show and charity night to raise cash for the Foundation of Light.

The 21-year-old, from Silksworth, says organising the show is a lot of hard work, but hopefully will be worth it.

This is the second year Sarah has taken part in the city’s Top Model competition, coming in third place in 2016.

Sarah is hoping to top her placement this year and also beat the £900 she raised for the charity last year.

The former Venerable Bede CE Academy pupil, said: “I have always wanted to do modelling and put myself forward for the competition last year. I really enjoyed it so decided to take part again this year.”

Sarah’s charity night will be held at The Copt Hill pub in Houghton on Saturday, April 29, and as well as the fashion show, there will be a disco and raffle as well.

The TSB worker is being sponsored by D’acqua restaurant in the city, which is helping her to organise the charity event and also donating prizes.

The cost of the night is £5 and tickets are available by contacting Sarah via email at [email protected], or people can pay on the door.

Top Model of Sunderland is a competition which could help an aspiring model on the path to becoming a catwalk success.

Ten finalists have already been chosen for the grand finale, which will take place at the Marriott Hotel in Seaburn on May 20, but there are still some places up for grabs.

Last year’s winner was Jade Bambrough, 22, from Thorney Close, who said: “I’ve absolutely loved the past year. It’s opened a lot of doors for me.”

Ailish Shaw, director of Top Model of Sunderland, says she is looking for dedicated women to fly the flag for the city.

She said: “This year I’m looking for someone who is dedicated and committed to raising money for charity.”

Ailish is looking for women aged 16-29 to appear in the competition, the winner of which will compete in the national Supermodel England contest.

The finalists will compete in four rounds at the final, which will be held at the Marriot Hotel in Seaburn on May 20, in jeans and T-shirt, personal style, evening wear and a round wearing dresses from Sunderland online boutique Brogan’s Closet.

The overall winner will receive a portfolio with David Miller Photography, a £100 voucher for The Dressworks and other prizes. To apply visit http://www.topmodelofsunderland.co.uk/.