An inspiring fundraiser which has already raised more than £1million for the fight against cancer will return this spring.
Friends of Anchor has launched the search for potential models for its hugely popular Courage on the Catwalk and Brave events.
The models will be glammed up and given professional training before strutting their stuff at the Beach Ballroom in front of loved ones, friends and charity supporters.
Men and women who have beaten cancer, or are going through treatment, are being sought for the events, with 24 selected for each.
Brave will be held on May 7 and 8 before its big sister, Courage on the Catwalk, takes place on May 9 and 10.
Since their inception, the fashion shows have raised more than £1million and Friends of Anchor chairman Jim Milne is looking forward to seeing what 2020 will bring.
He said: “The beginning of a new decade is always an exciting time filled with a sense of hopefulness and renewed strength, which is just what these events look to instil in the participants and audiences who come to cheer them on.
“We’re proud to be entering another decade with these events, which have become a much-anticipated date in the diary for many.
“Their popularity is certainly not something we take for granted and I hope that people in the north-east will help us spread the word so we can see another powerful and inspiring line-up of individuals take to the stage in May.”
Gordon Lawrence, who took part in last year’s Brave just months after having his leg amputated as he battled two types of cancer, encouraged people to apply.
Mr Lawrence, from Danestone, said: “For me, Brave was the experience of a lifetime, not to be missed and for such a good cause that is dear to our hearts.
“I’d encourage others to apply for the event in a heartbeat. The highlight for me is that I now have a 21-man support group that is going to last forever.”
Sarah-Jane Hogg, Friends of Anchor’s fundraising and development director, added: “We cannot stress enough that we are not specifically looking for catwalk-ready men and women. We are looking for mothers, fathers, aunties, brothers, daughters – those incredible people who feature in our everyday lives and inspire us daily with the way they have faced their diagnosis.”
For more information on how to apply, or to nominate a friend, call 01224 859170 or e-mail info@friendsofanchor.org
The deadline for Courage applications is February 17, and February 24 for Brave.