A group of courageous women sashayed into the spotlight in an unforgettable north-east fashion show yesterday.
These were not ordinary models, as every one of the 24 women who took to the catwalk is either battling, or has survived, cancer.
Organised by Aberdeen-based charity Friends of Anchor, Courage on the Catwalk was held for the first time last year.
Buoyed by the success of the inaugural fundraiser, which raised £50,000, the charity had to whittle the entrants down to just 24.
And yesterday, after three months of intense rehearsals, the brave ladies finally had the chance to shine during the course of two shows held at the Beach Ballroom in Aberdeen.
More than 1,000 people packed into the venue to support the models as they showcases a range of stunning dresses and styles.
For the women themselves, it was not only the taking part that was special, but also sharing their stories with each other and gaining new friends.
The emotion of the occasion was evident, from the tears of family and close friends to the glistening eyes of the women themselves. From the youngest person taking part, 18-year-old Katy Ingram from Inverurie, to 66-year old Sandra Smith from Torry, each lady was greeted with a loud cheer.
Jim Milne, chairman of Friends of Anchor, said every women in the show represented “every single courageous individual” who is fighting a cancer diagnosis in the north-east.
“It gives me great pleasure to thank everyone that made the day possible, and there are so many people to thank who have done a lot of work behind the scenes, but of course, the real heroes are models,” he said.
“Everyone can see the tremendous support they get from their friends and family, and it is truly fantastic.
“As a result of the money raised for Friends of Anchor we can be assured that we are playing our part in making a difference in the lives of those experiencing cancer and haematology treatment at the Anchor Unit.”
Over the last two months, the Press and Journal has told the stories of some of these incredible women.
Their bravery and determination struck a chord with sponsors and the public alike, and the charity expects to have doubled the proceeds from last year with yesterday’s shows.