A FANCY dress shop is in the pink this week over the popularity of its latest exhibition.

For a rare collection of outfits worn by the late novelist Barbara Cartland has proved to be a "best seller" at Leslie Philip Good theatrical costume hire in Water Street, Radcliffe.

The collection of 14 dresses, which are on loan to the shop until Saturday (July 20), were bought on her death last year and are said to be priceless.

The romance writer was a great lover of the colour pink and her passion for glitter and sparkle is also evident in her evening wear.

Shop manager Robert Wilkinson, who is pictured with one of the gowns, said: "Think blancmange! It is a wonderful collection and I have been overwhelmed by the response."

He said around 90 people had visited the shop at the start of the exhibition on Monday and one woman had travelled from Sheffield to view the display.

Mr Wilkinson added: "I think it is just fascination that has attracted people, it is something a little bit different."

Although the shop, which has just re-opened after suffering flood damage last month, provides costumes for hire Mr Wilkinson said no-one had actually requested to try on Ms Cartland's clothes.

"They have not been laundered since she last worn them so they still contain an element of her personality," added Mr Wilkinson. "You can still smell the scent of her perfume!"

The Barbara Cartland Collection is on display daily from 11am to 5pm and NOT available to hire.