Grab a bargain outfit at Herringthorpe school's great prom giveaway

THRIFTY Andrea Jenkinson has pulled together a cut-price prom dress collection to help students slash the cost of the priciest party of the year.

More than 80 gowns and dresses, as well as several suits, will be on offer at a prom fair at St Bernard’s RC High School in Herringthorpe from 4pm to 8pm on February 28.

All the dresses are free, and all Andrea is asking for in return is a donation to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

The Whiston mum of six said she had organised the event after finding several dresses in her loft which had been worn but were still in good condition.

“I used to be involved with the Charity Chicks shop, which sold good quality used clothes,” she explained.

“I asked through Facebook for donations of used prom dresses and suits and the response has been fantastic.

“I’ve had 80 dresses, including a couple sent from as far away as Milton Keynes.

“I asked St Bernard’s if they could help with a venue as they have quite a large hall and they were very enthusiastic.

“I’ve invited students from ten comprehensive schools but it is open to anyone.

“It is all about recycling prom dresses and suits which people may have had just hanging around.

“The cost of prom night can be quite ridiculous, with the standard dresses being £100 or so, so people have been keen to get on board with this event.”

Andrea insisted there would be no charge for the dresses, adding: “People will be asked to make an anonymous, private donation of whatever they can afford.

“I chose the Teenage Cancer Trust because I wanted a charity that would mean something to young people.”

More than a dozen businesses offering prom services such as hair and nails will attend the event, and Andrea said they had all agreed to make a donation.