BRAVE arthritis sufferers are taking to the catwalk to prove the condition does not have to cramp your lifestyle.

And to remind us you don't have to be over 60 to suffer, the spotlight will be on younger people.

Young Arthritis Care will be putting on its fashion extravaganza at Blackpool's Savoy Hotel on Sunday, May 11.

Organiser Julia Ann Kerner said: "This is the first event of its kind and we've all been working very hard to put it together.

"The models involved in the show all suffer from arthritis. They're very nervous about the show, but have had lots of help from choreographer Royce Nelson, who has shown them what to do on the catwalk." The clothes for the show have been donated by South Shore designer boutique Jill Perkins Ltd. Jill's daughter Maxine said: "We're very pleased to help Julia . The clothes will range from day, casual and evening wear and can be ordered on the night."

Julia has suffered from arthritis all her life, but has never let it hold her back. She enjoys a career as a singer and has appeared with Ken Dodd as well as regularly appearing at the New Mayfair Hotel, Blackpool, where she also holds meetings for Young Arthritis Care.

She said: "I hope that the fashion show challenges the accepted stereotypes and shows that all women can have a lively interest in fashion even if they've got arthritis."

The show starts at 2.30pm. Tickets priced £5, which includes a glass of champagne, are available from the New Mayfair Hotel (01253) 692704 and Yvette Bell (01253) 692704.

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